Roman Catholics in Mobile are hosting a special "Blue Mass" for police, firefighters and other first responders in southwest Alabama.
The annual service will held at lunchtime Friday at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in downtown Mobile.
The event is held each year around the anniversary of the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. It's meant to express appreciation for people who service in public safety positions.
Police, firefighters, state and federal agents and county officers from Mobile and Baldwin counties are expected to attend. Students from seven elementary and high schools will participate.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.