24 years ago today, our country changed forever.

We lost thousands of lives on September 11th — mothers, fathers, family members and loved ones — and in the years since, too many first responders and survivors have faced serious illnesses caused by the toxic exposure at Ground Zero, the Pentagon and Shanksville.

When we say “never forget,” it’s not just about remembering the heartbreak of that day. It’s about standing with the people who gave everything in the aftermath — who ran toward danger while most people ran away.

That’s why I’ve fought year after year to ensure the World Trade Center Health Program is fully funded — so every responder, survivor and family member can get the care they deserve for as long as they need it.

But with funding shortfalls and administrative delays threatening the care these heroes rely on, we have to keep pushing until this program is fully funded and secure for the future.

On this anniversary, I’m thinking of the families who lost so much, the survivors still fighting for their health and the first responders who put everything on the line that day and the days that followed. They represent the best of who we are as Americans — and they deserve the very best from us in return.

Today, we honor them. Tomorrow, we will keep fighting for them. Always.

In solidarity,

Kirsten Gillibrand