Politics

September 11

By Speaker Pelosi

Every year on September 11, we remember the victims and honor the heroes of that fateful morning eight years ago. We are reminded of the nearly 3,000 American lives cut short during this unspeakable tragedy. We recall the firefighters and first responders, the rescue workers and all who perished trying to save others.

It is in their names that we pledge to never forget the attacks. It is in their memories that we rededicate ourselves to the values we hold most dear: freedom and equality, pluralism and the rule of law.

This anniversary reminds us not just of images of destruction and despair, but of the unity we all felt in the wake of the attacks and our potential to move forward as one community and one nation. In that spirit, Congress established September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. As a component of the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act and a tribute to Senator Kennedy?s lifelong commitment to public service, this day will bring all Americans together to clean up their neighborhoods, assemble care packages for our veterans, soldiers and first responders, volunteer at food banks and shelters, and participate in service projects nationwide.

I urge my fellow citizens to take this day to commemorate the fallen of 9/11 and honor their sacrifice by giving back to their communities and rededicating themselves to our common future.

Full post as published by The Gavel on September 11, 2009 (boomark / email).