Statement from James C. Hunt, president of the National League of Cities and Clarksburg, West Va. Councilman:
?On the solemn occasion of the 5th anniversary of the September 11th 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.?
The National League of Cities is the nation?s oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 U.S. cities, towns and villages, which collectively serve 225 million people.
For information, contact Sherry Conway Appel, 202-626-3003 (appel@nlc.org) or Laura Sweeney, 202-626-3051 (sweeney@nlc.org).
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