“We will never forget the attacks of September 11, 2001. We will never forget the tragedy of nearly 3,000 lives lost and the realization that our nation had been forever changed. And we will never forget the heroism and compassion our firefighters, police officers, and first responders demonstrated in the face of the brutality and violence of terrorism.

“Today is a solemn occasion, to keep in our prayers the men and women who lost their lives and their families. It is also a reminder that six years after the attacks many first responders, building and construction trades workers, volunteers, residents, office workers and students are suffering from the health effects of the attacks. Countless New Yorkers and others continue to experience health problems as a result of the toxic cloud of chemicals and debris that blanketed streets and poisoned lungs. Many are sick. Some have died. We must never forget the sacrifice of those who served at Ground Zero and Fresh Kills in the rescue and recovery – and we must honor their sacrifice by helping all those who need it.”

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