WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.), co-chairs of the National Service Congressional Caucus, introduced a resolution today recognizing September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance and encouraging the American public to volunteer in a charitable service of their choosing on or around the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. They were joined by Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Angus King (D-Maine), and Susan Collins (R-Maine).

Following calls by families of those killed in the attacks of September 11, 2001, Congress first established September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance in 2009, in tribute to the 9/11 victims, first responders, recovery workers, volunteers, and members of the U.S. military who rose in service in defense of our nation. This year, as co-chairs of the National Service Congressional Caucus, Senators Coons and Cassidy are calling on their colleagues in the Senate to reaffirm that commitment and honor the heroes who answered the call to service in response to attacks in New York City, at the Pentagon, and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. 

“Nearly 21 years ago, our country went through a tragedy that claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people, including a dozen Delawareans,” said Senator Coons. “On that day, however, we saw the best of the American spirit – countless Americans who risked their own lives for their fellow men and women, often for no reason other than that it was the right thing to do. Our commitment to volunteering on 9/11 reminds us that no matter the physical damage done that day, the American dream of building a more perfect union endures. As a nation, we work together and stand as one to remember those we lost.”

“Americans will never forget the tragedy of the attack, the heroism of the first responders and our service members, and the unity of the American people,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We honor those we have lost with service of our own and by remaining ever vigilant of future threats.”

“Every September 11th, we grieve the 2,977 lives taken too soon and we remember the sacrifice and bravery of American heroes who sprang into action that day. We also honor the selfless service and sacrifice of the thousands of U.S. service members, diplomats, and intelligence professionals who have worked tirelessly to keep our country safe in the years since that fateful day. I’m joining this bipartisan resolution to honor our first responders and brave civilians who heeded the call to action to save lives and keep our country strong,” said Senator Shaheen. “They represent the best of the American spirit, and this resolution is a testament to their courage and to our shared commitment to never forget what happened on September 11, 2001.”

 

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