Mayor Bevilacqua commemorates the 20th anniversary of 9/11

The following statement was issued by Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua on the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and on the National Day of Service: 

“Twenty years ago today, the world watched in horror and disbelief as the deadliest terrorist attacks in the history of the United States took place.  

“On Sept. 11, 2001, four U.S. planes were hijacked, two of which were flown into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, a third plane hit the Pentagon just outside Washington, D.C., and the fourth plane crashed in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. As a result, nearly 3,000 people, including civilians and first responders, were killed. It is a day that will be engrained in our memories for generations. 

“To commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11, today, the City of Vaughan held a virtual ceremony to remember the victims. We offer our condolences to everyone who lost loved ones as a result of this tragedy and whose lives were forever changed. We also recognize the remarkable bravery of the first responders who raced through the flames of the collapsing towers to save as many lives as possible. We will never forget the extraordinary sacrifices of the 343 firefighters from the Fire Department of New York who were killed in the line of duty. Their heroic and selfless actions that day inspired hope around the world. 

“Today is also the National Day of Service, a meaningful occasion to reflect on the sacrifices of all first responders and pay tribute to those who serve our nation during times of war, conflict and peace. The liberties we enjoy today are because of the heroic members of the armed forces, who contribute to the noble cause of freedom here at home and abroad. Every day in every way, they fight for the shared values that make us proud to be Canadian. Their service is made in the name of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. 

“In Vaughan, we are grateful for every member of the Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service, York Regional Police and EMS, for their commitment to keeping our families, friends and neighbours safe. On behalf of all citizens, we recognize the sacrifices they make each day while answering the call of public service. I want to extend my sincerest appreciation to Vaughan Fire Rescue Service for organizing today’s ceremony and serving our city with pride and honour. 

“I invite residents to leave a message of remembrance in the City’s virtual guest book to honour those who courageously and selflessly helped others on 9/11.” 

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