First Responders

Floor Speech

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Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, fifteen years ago yesterday, we all remember where we were when we first heard a plane had hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center. We also remember that solemn moment when we saw the second plane hit. We knew instantly that our country would never be the same. As we were just beginning to understand the gravity of what had happened, there were men and women who already were in action to prevent further loss of life. Air traffic controllers took the unprecedented action of clearing our nation's airspace of over 4,452 aircraft. Within hours, the FBI had determined who was responsible for perpetrating the terrible acts. Passengers on Flight 93 forced their own plane into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania to avoid it being used as a weapon against the White House or the Capitol building.

The most powerful images we saw that day were the first responders. As people were running from the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon toward safety, men and women in uniform were heading in the opposite direction to save as many people as possible from burning and collapsing buildings. At that moment, their bravery, instinct and training took over. Those professionals knew that they may be giving their lives to save others. It is fitting that this tribute to the first responders of Brentwood is dedicated on this most somber of days. Brentwood Fire and Police first responders are no different than the men and women we witnessed sacrificing themselves on 9/11. Their bravery, training and character is no different. They help keep us safe. Through doing so, they protect our freedom.

Thank you to the City of Brentwood, Leadership Brentwood and the businesses who have made this Honor Garden possible. It will serve as a constant reminder of the service and sacrifice of a few who protect so many.

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