[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 156 (Friday, September 10, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E964]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    COMMEMORATING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SEPTEMBER 11TH ATTACKS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. YVETTE HERRELL

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 10, 2021

  Ms. HERRELL. Madam Speaker, today I rise to commemorate the 20th 
anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks. On that day, 19 al 
Qaeda terrorists hijacked four aircraft and claimed the lives of 2,974 
people, shocking our nation and the world.
  The devastation and destruction from that day was heartbreaking, but 
was swiftly overcome by American resilience following the attacks. 
Heroic first responders ran towards danger, risking their own lives to 
rescue victims, and their selfless fortitude will always be remembered. 
The brave passengers of Flight 93 prevented further tragedy by 
overwhelming terrorist hijackers; their courage saved countless 
American lives. Regardless of political party, race, or creed, the 9/11 
attacks on our nation remind us of the unifying values that can bring 
Americans together on the darkest of days.
  Today, I want to especially commend the work of the men and women 
responsible for the new 9/11 Memorial Monument in New Mexico. This 
community-sponsored Memorial Monument in the Village of Williamsburg 
was created by hardworking and dedicated New Mexicans to pay solemn 
tribute to those we lost on 9/11, and the heroes who rose amid the 
flames. Following the attacks, 42 of New Mexico's finest traveled 
across the country to assist in search and rescue operations; our 
country will forever be grateful for all first responders served their 
fellow Americans.
  The tragedy of September 11th echoes to this day. Thousands of first 
responders, those who worked and lived in lower Manhattan, and crews 
that came in to clean up the rubble were exposed to toxic particles. By 
2018, nearly 10,000 people were diagnosed with 9/11-related cancers. 
These heroes deserve to have the best of care, and I am thankful that 
President Trump extended the Victim Compensation Fund through 2092.
  September 11th, 2001 will forever be remembered as ``Patriot Day,'' a 
National Day of Service and remembrance. I commend all the first 
responders, volunteers, and countless numbers of men and women who 
responded to this great tragedy and continue to pray for all families 
who lost their loved ones.

                          ____________________