On the recordDecember 22, 2010
Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. Every American remembers the day the Twin Towers fell and the unparalleled heroism of the first responders who saved countless lives without any regard for their own. They showed courage in the face of terror and strength in a path of destruction. Too many of these brave men and women didn't make it out of the wreckage in time. Those who did returned every day for months, sifting through rubble, recovering victims and restoring order to Ground Zero with little consideration for their own welfare or safety. Tragically, many of these selfless workers are now suffering chronic, disabling health conditions as a direct result of injuries or toxic exposure sustained at the site. The bill before us creates a program to provide medical services and health monitoring for first responders and others who have medical conditions related to the September 11 terrorist attacks. Madam Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this measure and finally show these heroes the same honor and respect they showed us, our families, our friends and our country.





