FEMA Remembers September 11

25 Years of Service, Sacrifice and Resilience

WASHINGTON -- Twenty-five years after the September 11 terrorist attacks, FEMA continues to remember and honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost in New York City, Washington, D.C. and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. This remains a defining moment in American history that deeply affects families, communities, first responders, public servants and the nation. The courage of the first responders, emergency managers, public servants and private citizens who answered the call during one of the nation's darkest days will never be forgotten.

"As a nation, we mourn the innocent lives lost on 9/11 and remember them in our prayers. We also honor the legacy and heroism of those who helped pull our nation together in this trying time. America is better because of their sense of duty and bravery," said FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton.

"Twenty-five years ago today, my day started like any other-without great significance. Little did I know, this would be a defining moment for our nation. I can recall heading to class and seeing the chaos unfold on TV as New York was struck. I remember the visceral emotions of concern for Americans, as well as anger against our enemies who struck our homeland. Many things changed for us as Americans as we watched first responders pull victims from the rubble.

It was at this moment that I decided to serve in the Armed Forces, join the Navy SEALS and deploy to combat to fight to protect our great nation. I simply wanted to do my part. May God bless our troops, and may God bless the United States of America."

"On the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, we honor the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of the 343 firefighters, 8 EMTs, 60 law enforcement officers, and untold number of civilians whose lives were lost or forever changed," said U.S. Fire Administrator Paul Matheis. "The 343 FDNY members who made the ultimate sacrifice remain a lasting symbol of the fire service's highest calling: service before self. Their legacy serves as a testament to the U.S. Fire Administration's mission to support, protect, and strengthen America's fire and emergency services."

On Thursday, September 10, the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation held a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the National Emergency Training Center Chapel. U.S. Fire Administrator Paul Matheis welcomed guests and reflected on the firefighters, EMTs and law enforcement officers who perished on September 11, 2001, as well as the hundreds more who later suffered from illnesses caused by their heroic response.

"When the world fractured and panic set in, they did exactly what they were trained to do. They didn't hesitate. They didn't wait for the dust to settle to weigh the risks," said U.S. Fire Administrator Matheis. "They looked up at the burning towers, picked up their gear, and climbed into the unknown. They marched directly into the devastation so that others might live, orchestrating the largest and most successful rescue operation in American history."

Chief Joanne Rund, Director of Family Programs for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, spoke about the lasting loss experienced by families and the foundation's commitment to ensuring their loved ones are remembered, honored and never forgotten. The ceremony concluded with the Frederick County Fire Honor Guard leading a procession to the "To Lift a Nation" Memorial and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial for wreath-laying ceremonies.

FEMA's acknowledgement of the tragic events that occurred years ago reflects the agency's enduring commitment to readiness and service for communities. The work of public servants and partners across the country who help protect the homeland, strengthen preparedness and support national unity is critical. Their dedication and sacrifice remain central to FEMA's mission of helping people before, during and after disasters and to the ongoing work of building a more prepared and resilient nation.

The September 11 attacks forever changed how our nation prepares for and responds to disasters and emergencies. Through Ready.gov, created in the aftermath of that tragic day, FEMA continues to strengthen the nation's resilience by building upon those lessons to help individuals, families and communities take steps to be better prepared for emergencies.