by Cherie Duvall

As people around the nation remember the series of devastating terrorist attacks on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, NLC President James Hunt, councilmember, Clarksburg, W.Va., joins the nation in mourning the confirmed 2,973 people who died and 24 who remain missing on the 5th anniversary of the tragic event.

As a city official and in his travels as NLC president, Hunt has seen first hand that not only have New York; Arlington, Va.; and Shanksville, Pa. ? the three cities that were victims of the terrorist attacks ? been affected by the tragedy, but also cities across the country.

In remembrance of the tragedy of 9/11, Hunt issued the following statement last week.

?On the solemn occasion of the 5th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, it is only fitting that we as local elected officials pause and reflect.

?First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those whose lives were so tragically lost, and to the many heroes who worked tirelessly in the aftermath. The events made strikingly clear the critical role first responders play and the pressures they and their families face every day. We learned how important our support systems must be and the vigilance we must continue to maintain to make sure these essential employees are trained, ready and strong.

?Looking forward, we remain committed to building the strong intergovernmental partnerships that will ensure that our
hometowns remain safe and secure from any future challenges and risks ? whether from the actions of a terrorist or the impact of Mother Nature.

?Municipal employees are what keep America running, but too often they are the unsung heroes until a disaster such as 9/11 strikes. In times like these, they need our continued recognition and support ? as well as our frequent thanks for a job well done.?