The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security today observed the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with a statewide message of remembrance from Commissioner Jeff Long, honoring the lives lost and the first responders who answered the call to serve.
“Today we pause to remember Sept. 11, 2001,” Commissioner Long said in a social media address. “Twenty-four years have passed, yet that day still speaks to us. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania. Families were broken, and a nation was shaken. In those first hours, Tennesseans stepped forward. Firefighters, troopers, medics, and volunteers left their homes and went to serve strangers. That’s the heart of this state.”
“For those of us in law enforcement and public safety, Sept. 11 is forever a part of our history. It is also a reminder of our calling,” Long said. “Men and women ran into danger with no thought for themselves. Many never came home. Their courage lit a path that still guides first responders in Tennessee and across the country.”
Long encouraged Tennesseans to help younger generations understand the meaning of the day. “A new generation is coming of age with no memory of that morning. Our duty is to tell them what happened. To teach them about sacrifice. To show them that service to others is the highest calling we can answer.”
“Here in Tennessee, we remember by standing watch, protecting our neighbors, and preparing for whatever comes,” Long said. “We do it with faith that light is stronger than darkness, and that the memory of those we lost will never fade. May God bless the families who still grieve, the heroes who gave all, and this great state we are called to serve.”
The Department continues to strengthen prevention, protection, and response capabilities through the Tennessee Office of Homeland Security, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, and partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies. Tennesseans can view the Commissioner’s message on the Department’s official website and social media channels.
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