ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- Firefighters finished building a monument honoring their brethren in time for the seventh commemoration of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

The memorial built in Annapolis at the corner of Calvert Street and Rowe Boulevard is dedicated to fallen firefighters across the state. It was created by other firefighters who are part of the Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Memorial Foundation.

"It's probably the most gratifying, satisfying thing I've ever done in my life to be able to give back to the people that lost their lives," said Bob Ringle, a firefighter and member of the foundation.

WBAL-TV 11 News reporter Kim Dacey said the main part of the memorial was built in 2006 after more than 10 years of planning and fundraising.

The final portions of the project, finished last week, include a fountain, landscaping and benches. Foundation members hope visitors enjoy the monument's beauty and take a look at the names of 381 firefighters killed in the line of duty on plaques along brick walls.

"I want them to feel some semblance feeling of what these firefighters gave their sacrifices that they did," said Gene Worthington, the foundation's chairman.

It's something these organizers can relate to as firefighters themselves. They hope others will understand the heroism shown by those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

"I'm a firefighter. I know what it is to go in and try and save people's lives and the people that have died in the line of duty have done it unselfishly. They have given their lives for me," Ringle said.

Even though the project is finished, the foundation is still selling personalized bricks to raise money for maintenance.