For many of us, when we think of September 11, 2001, we can remember exactly where we were when we learned of the terrorist attacks. Even today, we can still hear the news broadcasts. We can still see the images of the planes colliding into the towers, and the buildings tumbling down. We can still feel the emotions of that day. The memories reverberate for each of us, even fifteen years later.
For many of us, when we think of September 11, 2001, we can remember exactly where we were when we learned of the terrorist attacks. Even today, we can still hear the news broadcasts. We can still see the images of the planes colliding into the towers, and the buildings tumbling down. We can still feel the emotions of that day. The memories reverberate for each of us, even fifteen years later.
As President George W. Bush indicated in his address to the nation on the night of the attacks, we also saw the best of America on September 11th and in the weeks and months that followed. Our country came together in the face of tragedy. When cities were thrown into panic and chaos, our law enforcement offices and first responders courageously ran toward the danger, putting their own lives at risk in the service of others.
In the years since the attacks, we have heard countless stories of the heroic action by police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, and even ordinary citizens who rose up to help that day. This is the type of bravery and selflessness law enforcement officers and first responders exhibit across the country, each and every day. No matter how big or small of a department, these men and women make tremendous sacrifices to keep us safe and serve our communities. Too often these sacrifices go unrecognized, as their work helps to maintain the normalcy of our daily lives. It is only in times of crisis, when we are searching for security and comfort, that we are aware of their essential service.
This week, I hope you will take time to reflect on the sacrifices made by all of the men and women who did not hesitate to put themselves in harm’s way at Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and on Flight 93 to serve our country, and those who bravely serve our communities every day. While it has been 15 years since the attacks, we will never forget those who lost their lives on September 11th. Nor will we forget how our nation came together in adversity, led by the example and the selfless patriotism exhibited by our servicemen and women.
It is my honor to serve you in Congress, and I look forward to hearing from you. Feel free to call my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 225-2015, Hilliard office at (614) 771-4968, Lancaster office at (740) 654-2654 or Wilmington office at (937) 283-7049 with any questions or comments you have about issues facing the federal government.
