“Today, we mark the somber anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks with a vow to never forget the tragedy that unfolded in our nation — as if we could ever forget. Like most Americans, the graphic display of tragedy and devastation was forever seared into my memory but so too was the undeniable heroism. 

 

“We witnessed ordinary Americans respond to a fiery plane crash atop one of the world’s tallest buildings by running full speed toward the site. It wasn’t madness but instinct — lives were at stake. We heard the voices of ordinary passengers on a flight to Washington D.C., who summoned the courage to fight back against their hijackers in the face of certain death to save the lives of others. In the aftermath, we saw firefighters, paramedics, members of law enforcement and so many others from around the country show up at the sites of these tragedies to honor their fallen brethren and help our nation emerge from the rubble. 

 

“First responders showed up for this nation in our darkest hour because that is what they do. The way to prove we haven’t forgotten those we lost, the heroism we witnessed, and the sacrifices that were made is by supporting our first responders, who show up in moments of national crises and personal disaster and despair. So let’s come together as one nation to mourn those we lost, pay tribute to our first responders and hold our loved ones a little tighter.”