Paying tribute on 9/11

Today, on the 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001, we remember the 2,997 individuals who lost their lives in New York City, Shanksville Pennsylvania, and Washington DC.

We grieve with their families and loved-ones. We marvel, again, at the bravery and selflessness of the 412 first responders who perished, including 343 firefighters of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY).

The brave men and women who risk their lives doing their jobs as first responders are on my mind today. Many who survived 9-11 have faced ongoing challenges in the past two decades, struggling with the lasting physical effects of chemical exposure and with their mental health.

On 9/11, and on every day, our first responders run toward danger not from it. They are heroes. I have seen their sacrifices and lifesaving skills firsthand here in Madison.

On Wednesday January 14th of this year, Alder Barbara McKinney was in an online meeting of the Public Safety Review Committee when other attendees noticed she was no longer visible on our computer screens. Madison Fire and Police personnel were in the meeting and had emergency responders dispatched to Alder McKinney's home. They saved her life.

Alder McKinney is a good friend, a mentor and now a colleague on the Madison Common Council. Without our first responders, she might not be here today.

To the first responders who put on their uniform and serve our communities and our nation, I say thank you. Scripture tells us that "There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends." I pray for all who suffered loss that on September 11, and pray for all of us to be united in compassion and caring for each other. Let us make sure that those who are gone are never forgotten.