September 11th Will Always be Remembered
From The Governor’s Desk
A weekly column by Gov. Joe Manchin
On September 11, 2001, this great country was changed forever. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives as the nation and people across the globe watched in horror the terrorist attacks that unfolded on American soil. Each of us has a vivid memory of that day that will forever be ingrained in our minds and our hearts.
We will always recall where we were when the news broke that a hi-jacked airplane had forever changed the New York skyline. And we will always remember the shock and the terror as we watched the live footage of our fellow Americans scrambling to safety, and the strike of the second plane.
We also remember the brave men and women who stood courageously in the face of danger, risking their own lives to help save those of complete strangers, and the flood of volunteers who rushed from all corners of the country to help in the days that followed. We remember the way that our citizens united and rallied around the families and loved ones of those that were lost. We remember that on that day we all became family; barriers were shattered and we were all equal, regardless of race, age or status. Though it was a time of great despair, the strength and resilience of America and her people shined bright.
Victims were from all walks of life - fire fighters, police officers, volunteers, community leaders, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children and friends. Some of those involved had close ties to West Virginia.
Nearly a decade has passed since that terrible day but the scars will always remain. That is why it is important that we continue to honor the victims and send our thoughts and prayers to those who are still healing from those tragic events.
In tribute to the men and women who were lost on September 11th, I encourage all West Virginians to observe the National Day of Service and Remembrance. By participating in a moment of silence and taking this opportunity to give something back to our communities we can honor their memories and help our country remain united, as we were on that day.
In addition, the anniversary of 9/11 reminds us that anything can happen on any given day, and we should be prepared for what to do in the case of an emergency. September is National Preparedness Month and, as we painfully learned in this month nine years ago, disasters – both natural and manmade – can occur. While we cannot prevent them, we can establish a plan to help us overcome them.
Tragedy is no stranger to West Virginia, but we always prevail, as does America. Today, and throughout the weekend, please remember those who are still suffering from that momentous day in our history.
May God bless America and the great state of West Virginia.