Senator Gallivan Remembers September 11th

Dear Fellow New Yorker:

It’s hard to believe that 10 years have passed since the September 11^th terrorist attacks. Like you, I remember where I was on that crisp and clear morning, how we frantically called our friends and family, and how we all watched in horror as the towers fell.

More than 3,000 people died on September 11th, many of whom were some of New York’s finest and bravest police officers and firefighters. Having spent my life as a first responder and public safety professional -- first as a New York State Trooper and later as the Sheriff of Erie County -- I can attest that these men and women displayed a level of bravery and sacrifice that morning that will never be matched.

Two weeks after the attacks, I had the privilege of leading a contingent of Sheriff’s from across the state to aid in the clean-up and investigation process. It was one of the greatest honors of my life.

Being so close to Ground Zero so soon after I noticed something else happening as a result of 9/11 - - New Yorkers and all Americans cast aside their differences and stood as one, united in grief, hope and compassion.

I’m often asked how we can best honor the memory of those who died on 9/11, including the firefighters, police officers and EMTs who rushed into the burning World Trade Center. My answer -- by taking time to give back to your own community through volunteering or donating blood, or attending one of the many September 11th related events in your town.

Doing so will commemorate the lives of those who died and show others that we remain the strongest and proudest nation in the world.

To assist you and your family in honoring the victims of September 11^th, as well as the brave men and women in our military who fight to defend our nation’s freedoms, I have provided information below about the special “New York Remembers” exhibitions taking place throughout New York State. I hope that you are able to participate in one of these important events.

Thank you, and God Bless America today, tomorrow and always.

Sincerely,

Patrick M. Gallivan
Senator – 59^th District