SEPTEMBER 11, 2001: 'NEVER FORGET'

Americans vividly remember the morning of September 11, 2001 like it was yesterday and can tell you without hesitation exactly where they were when they got he news. The memory of that day is still raw for many, and the emotional impact it has had on America’s psyche continues to change the world.

We now have an entire generation of adults who had not been born when the attacks occurred. Nineteen years ago, we watched in horror as radical terrorists attacked us, killing thousands of innocent people and changing the course of American and world history. As we reflect on the tragic memories of September 11th, we should also be mindful of the tremendous heroism displayed by so many in the days and years following the attacks.

On that fateful morning, parents pulled their children from school. Commercial airline flights across the country was grounded, and the entire nation stood  as one in shock. Thousands of heroic first responders, Cops, Firefighters and Emergency Medical personnel all rushed to the WTC site, the Pentagon and a field in Rural Pennsylvania without concern for their personal safety hoping to save lives.

Almost 3,000 innocent people perished on that horrific day nineteen years ago including 343 New York City Firefighters, 72 law enforcement officers from the NYPD and the Port Authority Police Department along with 55 military personnel. Hundreds more have died in the 19 years since from what is commonly called 911 related causes. There are still over 1,100 persons who perished that day whose remains have not been identified despite the advances in DNA technology  and testing procedures.

“Never Forget” - it’s a day that altered American life forever. As we remember those who lost their lives and loved ones that day, let’s also give thanks. To our families, and the freedoms we still have here in America.

May all those who perished because of this tragedy Rest In Peace and forever be remembered  by the American people and the world.