[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 134 (Monday, September 12, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1594]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    ON RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF THE BIRMINGHAM FIRE 
       DEPARTMENT ON THE TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2001

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. GARY C. PETERS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 12, 2011

  Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor public safety workers 
across Michigan's Ninth Congressional District, the State of Michigan 
and our Nation as we remember the tragedy that befell our country 10 
years ago on September 11, 2001.
  The brutal attacks of September 11, 2001 are no doubt etched into the 
minds of every American, as they are in mine. I recall the disbelief, 
the shock and the horror we felt as we saw our Nation rocked to its 
core and saw thousands of innocent Americans lose their lives in New 
York, Pennsylvania, and Washington in acts of deliberate and horrific 
violence. It was an assault, the likes of which had never before been 
carried out on our homeland.
  Yet, in the face of overwhelming tragedy, we witnessed the enduring 
resilience and unwavering determination of the American spirit as our 
public safety personnel thrust themselves into unimaginable danger to 
save the victims. Indeed, our public safety personnel, overcoming fear, 
in a moment that embodied their sense of service and professionalism, 
rose to meet a challenge that none before them had ever faced. And on 
that day, some of our brave firefighters, first responders and police, 
made the ultimate sacrifice as they gave their lives in the fulfillment 
of their duty to protect the communities they served.
  In this poignant display of their bravery, their courage and their 
resolve, we are reminded that our public safety personnel willingly and 
fearlessly put their lives on the line every day to ensure our 
wellbeing.
  As is the case with their brothers and sisters across the Nation, 
these virtues are embodied by the first responders of the Birmingham 
Fire Department in Oakland County, Michigan. Last year they responded 
to over two thousand emergencies ranging from fires to motor vehicle 
accidents and hazardous material spills. With 32 employees, the 
department has worked vigilantly on daily basis to ensure the safety of 
Birmingham residents. And in honor to their service, I know the steel 
from the World Trade Center which is being presented to the department, 
will remind us all of the unwavering commitment they have made to our 
community. I commend and recognize the families and individuals who 
have worked hard to make this dedication possible.
  Mr. Speaker, the service and sacrifice of our public safety personnel 
make them true American heroes. On the tenth anniversary of September 
11, 2001, I rise with my colleagues and stand with my constituents in 
honoring the commitment and sacrifice made by our family, friends and 
neighbors who hear the call to serve the public as police, firefighters 
and first responders--they are truly emblematic of the great strength 
of our Nation.

                          ____________________