Their usual plans nixed by the pandemic, North Kitsap Fire & Rescue firefighters and staff have found a way to continue their long-standing practice of marking the solemn anniversary of 9-11.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, in-person attendance is limited to NKF&R personnel and this year’s event won’t include the traditional breakfast.

Instead, the community is invited to gather virtually for a brief ceremony via Facebook LIVE beginning at 7 a.m.

Assistant Chief Rick LaGrandeur will offer short remarks before the on-duty crew raises and, then, lowers the station flag to half-staff.

Viewers will be invited to join firefighters in a moment of silence. This year, firefighters have chosen to honor Boys & Girls Club of North Kitsap for their valuable service to the community during the pandemic.

LaGrandeur will welcome BGCNK director Chelsea Tate and present her with a donation from NKF&R’s firefighters, staff, volunteers and commissioners. The public will be invited to support the club, too.

In 2003, NKF&R began hosting the public for breakfast every Sept. 11. Using a fund supported primarily by gifts from members, firefighters have provided free breakfast to the community while accepting donations for the charity chosen as that year’s beneficiary. Past charities have included the American Red Cross, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Kitsap Humane Society, Kitsap Mental Health Services, Kingston High School ASB, Kingston Cooperative Preschool, Village Green Foundation, Coffee Oasis, North Kitsap Schools Foundation, YWCA Alive Shelter and Tuesday’s Children/Snowball Express.

To join in the event, go to www.facebook.com/nkfire. To join firefighters in supporting the local club, send a donation to the club at 26159 Dulay Rd NE in Kingston, WA 98346. Be sure to note “North Kitsap” on the check’s memo line.