Friend --

Today marks 20 years since September 11, 2001. A day our country -- and my city -- changed forever. I feel it and remember it every day.

Much has been said over those 20 years of the valor, generosity, and heroism shown by so many on that day and in the years since. Our gratitude cannot be expressed enough.

The almost 3,000 people who lost their lives were our family and our friends, coworkers and neighbors. Some of them I knew. A guy I played basketball with in high school. A businessman who helped me on my way up. A firefighter I did blood drives with. As I ride my bike through Brooklyn and Bay Ridge, I see reminders of police officers and firefighters who gave their lives to save others. We remember their names and honor their sacrifice.

When I think of that day, I am humbled by the courage shown by so many New Yorkers and the American people. I wear an American flag pin on my suit every day, and when I put it on, I am thinking of them and of you. I'm thinking of the indescribable feeling of that day.

My thoughts are with everyone who lost a loved one 20 years ago today. Today, we remember those who lost their lives. We honor those who were called to help their fellow Americans. We tell each other their stories of courage, service, generosity, and sacrifice. We reflect on the resilience this country has shown -- on that day and every day in the 20 years since. We hope to carry on that legacy.

It is a great privilege to serve the people of New York and Americans across the country. The stories and memories we all share from that cloudless Tuesday 20 years ago are proof that we are capable of extraordinary acts of bravery and kindness.

Whatever you are doing today, please join me in a moment of remembrance and respect. Please join me in rededicating ourselves to acting with hope and resilience. We are truly in this together.

With gratitude, respect, and hope,

Chuck Schumer