New York—Congressman Eliot L. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following statement on the 15th Anniversary of 9/11:

“Fifteen years ago, our nation suffered an unspeakable tragedy. The attacks on September 11, 2001 killed nearly 3,000 Americans. The sights, sounds, and horror of that morning remain just as vivid in our minds today as they were then – especially for the first responders who selflessly risked their lives that fateful day to save others.

“We will never forget the collective pain we felt on 9/11. It is equally important that we not forget the sacrifices made by courageous first responders, many of whom lost their lives, or continue to suffer from debilitating conditions as a result of their exposure to tremendously toxic substances in the aftermath of the attacks.

“Last year, Congress reauthorized the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, ensuring our heroes do not bear the financial burdens of treating 9/11-related health conditions. To truly honor their sacrifices, though, we must make certain that our heroes and their families receive all the support we as an indebted nation can offer. We must continue to demonstrate the camaraderie that New Yorkers showed in the days following the attacks. These actions, and the compassion we afford to one another, will truly illustrate that we will ‘never forget.’”

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Please note this statement was originally published on September 9, 2016 by Congressman Engel’s House of Representative’s office and posted to this website no sooner than 72 hours after initial publication.