Go into any kindergarten classroom in America and ask the students what they want to be when they grow up. Almost always, at least one kid will raise his hand with a big ‘ol smile on his face and say, “I want to be a fireman!” Who can blame him? The shiny red trucks, flashing lights, screaming sirens, cool tools, and firehoses are all enticing. Plus, according to many, firefighters are the closest thing we have to superheroes (though just about anyone on the job will object to this statement). What kid doesn’t want to be a superhero?

On September 11, 2001, first responders, such as yourselves, courageously demonstrated just how dedicated they were to their jobs and this country. The work of true superheroes. I can’t imagine the adrenaline and confusion that filled your bodies as you rolled up on the scene. I can’t imagine the chaos unfolding around you that the public expected you to make sense of. Your training didn’t prepare you for this but it was what you had to work with and you would make it work.

Each and every one of you played a role in saving so many lives and preserving the integrity of our country. The results would have been drastically worse had even one of you not been there to make such a valiant effort. You did not know if the attacks were over. You did not know what was coming next. All you knew was that your job was to help the public and that is exactly what you did, going beyond the call of duty. Brother firefighters from all over came to aid in this tragedy.

We learn from every line of duty death but I believe the most can be learned from those of you who made the ultimate sacrifice on that day so many years ago. You embody the purpose of the fire service. No one made you do what you do. You chose this career. You chose to be extraordinary. When someone called for help, you answered no matter the time of day or the type of person who called. You helped everyone: old, young, black, white, rich, or poor. You served your community with pride and formed a bond with your brother firefighters. Your dedication to the job is admirable. And I thank you for everything you did during your time on this earth.

Every time I’m sitting in the truck going lights and sirens to a call, every time I show up to training, every time I put on my bunker gear; every single moment I am involved in the fire service I try my best to make each and every one of you proud. I may not have known you personally, but you are all still my brothers.

Thank you for your service.

(Names and photos of the 343 firefighters)