John, one year ago today, I got a phone call at 2:02 AM I could have never truly prepared for.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge had been hit by a container ship the length of three football fields. 
Six Marylanders who were working the night shift on the bridge were unaccounted for.
And the Port of Baltimore – one of our nation’s largest economic engines – was closed.

And, while I look back on March 26th, 2024 and remember the horror, I am also struck by the heroism.

Because in that moment, Marylanders did what we always do: We stepped up to serve.

Our first responders didn’t ask who was in trouble before they kissed their own loved ones and rushed to the scene to do their duty. And the private sector, General Assembly, and government leaders rallied. 

Together, our team brought comfort and closure to the victims’ families. We reopened the Port of Baltimore in 11 weeks, when many told us it would take us nearly a year. And, as we work to rebuild the bridge, we’re putting the people first.

That is why it means to be Maryland tough and Baltimore strong.

One year after this tragedy, there is still work to do. But I know that soon Marylanders of this generation and next will look up and see the Francis Scott Key Bridge standing tall again.

Elevate,

Wes