Mr. COOPER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the First Annual Patriot Day Community Candlelight Tribute in Mt. Juliet, TN.

Tonight, citizens from across Wilson County will come together to pay tribute to the men and women in uniform who work hard to protect our communities everyday. With flags flown at half-staff, a moment of silence and heartfelt prayer and a candlelight ceremony this evening, Mt. Juliet will remember all those who were lost on September 11, 2001 and honor the Americans who serve and protect our country today.

At home, our law enforcement officers, sheriff's department personnel, firefighters and emergency rescue workers give their energy and expertise to fight a variety of challenges and threats to make sure we are safe. From natural hazards and fires, to crime prevention, and the ever-growing meth epidemic, these local heroes endanger their lives to make ours safer.

Overseas, we count on the brave men and women of the Armed Forces to defend our freedom and protect democracy. They face countless dangers as they serve under the most difficult of conditions. We remember our family members, friends and neighbors across Wilson County and Tennessee who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. And it is with great pride and admiration that we support the Tennesseans who continue to serve their Nation overseas.

Tonight's Patriot Day Community Candlelight in Mt. Juliet is an opportunity to personally thank our local heroes--both at home and overseas--for their dedication and sacrifice. It is a time to remember those patriots we have lost, and it is a chance for us to renew our own patriotic spirit.

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Jim Cooper
Member of Congress