09/12/2026
This morning I joined our public safety leaders and American Legion Post 051 for their 9/11 and POW-MIA Recognition program. Thank you to Commander James Corbin and the members of Post 051 for the invitation.
Two observances came together in one room. September 11 changed how a generation of Americans understands service and sacrifice. POW-MIA Recognition honors the more than 81,000 Americans still unaccounted for from past conflicts. The empty table at the front of the room spoke for each one of them.
We went around the room and shared where we were on the morning of September 11, 2001. Some were in uniform. Some were at work. Some were children in a classroom watching adults try to explain something no one could explain. Twenty-five years later, everyone still remembers the exact place they were standing.
Our police chief and fire chief spoke about what that day asked of first responders and what it continues to ask of them.
It was a powerful reminder of what service and heroism look like. It was also a moment to reflect on the ties that bind us all as Americans.