Folks,

Like most people, I remember exactly where I was 21 years ago when I heard that the World Trade Center had been hit by Flight 11 and Flight 175, the Pentagon had been hit by Flight 77, and Flight 93 had crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The hours, days, and weeks seemed to blur together as we wept, rallied, and began the long process of healing. I’ve visited Shanksville several times, where the feeling of pain and sorrow still lingers for the heroic passengers of that flight.

For many, today is a reminder of the deep sorrow and fear we felt on September 11, 2001. For some, it will always be a painful anniversary of the loss of a loved one. For all of us, it’s a day of reflection and remembrance of the sacrifice of everyone who fought at home and abroad to rebuild and bring justice to the families of the 3,000 fallen Americans.

September 11, 2001 will always be a reminder of the price of freedom and resolve of the American people. Today my heart is overwhelmed once more with gratitude for those Americans who put themselves in harm's way each and every day – from first responders and members of the armed forces to the frontline workers who have gotten us through the last few years of a global pandemic.

Every day when I leave the house, I put on a special pin — given to me by a veteran from my former legislative district — in commemoration of those we lost on 9/11. Because we must never, ever forget.

May God bless the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and may God bless this great nation.

Josh Shapiro