We're now on our way back downtown to the Beacon Theater. To conclude the day, Deirdre Connelly will speak at a tribute to the 9/11 community and those who participated in the nationwide "United We Serve" initiative launched by First Lady Michelle Obama on June 22. As I mentioned in an earlier post, Secretary Clinton is the keynote speaker for tonight's event, which is exciting. There is a pretty amazing lineup of entertainers, lawmakers, and first responders, too.
I remember after 9/11 people seemed to work together, and seemed a bit nicer, for lack of a better word. We shared a sense of community by helping each out. Having a National Day of Service and Remembrance every year on this date will (I hope) help to ensure that sense of shared purpose continues.
Tonight, Deidre will be introducing Deputy Chief FDNY (Retired) Jim Riches. I am amazed by those folks--nothing compares to the heroic actions of the men and women who run toward the disaster zone to save the lives of strangers while they themselves face death, injury, or ailment as a result of their heroism.
Jim Riches grew up in
Responding to the scene at Ground Zero as a member of Engine 4 on September 11, Jimmy, the oldest of Jim and Rita's four sons, lost his life.
Jim led the entire Search and Recovery team at Ground Zero from September 11 until closing the site on
With this new National Day of Service and Remembrance, we're honoring the families affected by the attacks on that day through service. I think that is a fitting tribute.
Leave a comment