Christopher Shays: “I rise in support of H. Res 188, which recognizes and honors the contributions firefighters have made to our country.…”

“I rise in support of H. Res 188, which recognizes and honors the contributions firefighters have made to our country. Firefighters have played an important role in our nation's history since the first volunteer fire company was founded in 1736 by Benjamin Franklin. Firefighters take their oath of public safety very seriously and go above and beyond their call of duty to serve and protect the citizens of the United States. On September 11, 2001, the firefighters of our nation selflessly risked and gave their lives in one of most tragic days in the history of our country. The site of those brave men and women putting their lives on the line to enter the smoldering World Trade Center to save as many people as they could is still a humbling vision three years later. My heart goes out to the hundreds of firefighters who gave their lives on that horrible day. The terrorist attacks were not just attacks on New York City, but on the nation. With New York as a continuing top terrorist target, the protection of New York City is becoming a national responsibility. Other cities with tall buildings throughout the country face the same challenges with their communication systems and will need the same upgrades. Improvements in New York will lay the groundwork for improvements to communications systems across the country.”