On this 20th anniversary of 9/11, we would like to extend our thoughts to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack on the Twin Towers; the first responders and other survivors who have struggled or lost their lives due to the effects of the environmental exposure to the collapse of the Towers; and the many United States Service Members and veterans who have fought, or who have given the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our Nation.
Twenty years ago, the United States was changed forever. While some of us remember this day vividly, there are many in our communities and workplaces who are too young to remember or were yet to be born. It is the responsibility of those who remember this lived experience to pass our knowledge on to our younger generations. On December 18th, 2001, the United States Congress designated September 11th as “Patriot Day”. On April 21st, 2009, Congress additionally approved it to be the “National Day of Service and Remembrance”.
As we go into this weekend of 9/11, please take a time to reflect, remember and consider an act of kindness or service. In this time of divisiveness, it can serve as a bright reminder of the beauty and resiliency of our humanity.
Thank you again to First Responders, for the bravery that you exemplify daily and the post 9/11 service members and veterans who served and sacrificed over 20yrs of war, in defense of our nation. We acknowledge that this anniversary may be particularly difficult with the withrawal from Afghanistan and the recent deaths of the 13 brave service members working to evacuate those at risk in Afghanistan. We continue to hold you and families in our thoughts.