[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 134 (Wednesday, September 7, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1199]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





              IN RECOGNITION OF THE 9/11 FIRST RESPONDERS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 7, 2016

  Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the many first 
responders to the September 11th terrorist attacks of 2001, as well as 
to recognize that this September will be the 15th anniversary of that 
national tragedy.
  That day was a time of intense panic and immense sorrow for all 
Americans, with many losing friends, family, and loved ones. Yet in 
spite of all of this, our brave first responders from our police 
services, our fire fighters, and emergency medical services went above 
and beyond the call of duty to save the lives of their fellow citizens, 
so that they could go home to their families and friends.
  These amazing men and women faced this terror attack with the 
greatest courage and conviction anyone could exhibit. The valor and 
fortitude which they showed is beyond expression, with many giving 
their lives so that their fellow Americans could live. However, many of 
those who endured and survived are still suffering from the ordeal, 
with many experiencing PTSD, depression, and physical ailments. These 
men and women represent the very best of our nation. We should all 
strive to live up to their extraordinary example.
  It is important that we do whatever we can for these heroes, and as 
such I would like to thank the Hylton Performing Arts Center for their 
event entitled ``Helping First Responders Find Hope, Healing and 
Resilience'' which will be held in Manassas on September 10th, 2016. 
Through events like this, caring Americans are helping raise awareness 
to these unfortunate conditions.
  Mr. Speaker, I would ask my fellow Members of Congress to join me in 
honoring some of the bravest of our nation's heroes, and to thank them 
for all that they did during our country's most desperate hour. May God 
bless them, and all those whose lives were affected by this day.

                          ____________________