;)
Two years ago a group of first responders, first responder widows and community members envisioned a memorial dedicated to the first responders who succumbed to 9/11 related illnesses.
Today, for the first time, in our great country, we have a place for all those responders to call home. This memorial will be a place where Police Officers, Fire Fighters, EMS and volunteers to name a few can all be honored together and where their loved ones can come to reflect on their great sacrifice to America.
Today continues our journey. Our work is not done. As a committee, we stand very proud. In creating this memorial we exude the same pride every American citizen displayed responding on September 11th, 2001 and the weeks and months thereafter. We have overcome Irene and an earthquake; torrential rains and frustrating days; and hurdles and obstacles we never imagined.
We have toiled on this very soil putting our blood, sweat and tears to make this very day possible…and now we are here.
While tomorrow we reflect on the horrific events that occurred ten years ago, take solace that you and your loved ones will never be forgotten.
And to all my brother and sister first responders that we have lost, we miss you, we love you and we will always remember you.
In closing to them:
Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean we’ll miss you. Until we meet again.
God Bless you all and God Bless the United States of America.
Dr. Errol D. Toulon, Jr.
September 10, 2011
9/11 Responders Remembered Unveiling