Recognizing September 11, 2015, as Patriot Day in Philadelphia to remember and reflect on the tragedy and heroism resulting from the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States.

WHEREAS, On September 11, 2001 beginning at 8:46 A.M., Eastern Time, the United States came under attack from terrorists using commercial aircraft as weapons of mass destruction first striking the North Tower of the World Trade Center and ultimately killing 2,977 innocent civilians and First Responders—a tragedy that was met with the inspiring heroism of so many in dealing with the resulting carnage and destruction; and

WHEREAS, In the immediate aftermath, President George W. Bush proclaimed Friday, September 14, 2001 as a “National Day of Prayer and Remembrance” for the victims of the September 11th attacks; and

WHEREAS, By a Joint Resolution passed December 18, 2001, the United States Congress designated September 11th of each year as “Patriot Day

“; and

WHEREAS, President Bush proclaimed the first Patriot Day on September 11, 2002; and

WHEREAS

,

The United States Congress requested public observance of September 11th as an annual “National Day of Service and Remembrance”; and

WHEREAS, On Patriot Day, the United States flag is flown at half-staff at the White House and on all United States government buildings and establishments around the world and all Americans are encouraged to display the United States flag on their homes and a Moment of Silence is observed at the exact moment the attacks began on September 11, 2001; and

WHEREAS, We in Philadelphia, where our great nation was founded, join with all Americans to remember with reverence the heroes, victims and their families of September 11, 2001 and rededicate ourselves to the Nation’s highest ideals

,

freedom, democracy and self-determination;

now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes September 11, 2015 as Patriot Day in Philadelphia to remember and reflect on the tragedy and heroism resulting from the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the

United States.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Michael Resnick, Director of Public Safety for the City of Philadelphia, further evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body for our First Responders on behalf of First Responders everywhere.

End