For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
NEW YORK - Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today traveled to New York City to participate in an International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) ceremony honoring the firefighters who sacrificed their lives following the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
"September 11th was a defining moment for our nation, the Fire Department of New York, and first responders in every city and community in the United States," said Secretary Napolitano. "America was not defeated, and today there is no doubt that our nation is stronger and more secure than we were a decade ago. As we honor the memory of our fallen firefighters, and all those we lost on 9/11, we resolve, through their memory and legacy, to continue to work together to do everything we can to keep our nation safe."
At today's ceremony, Secretary Napolitano joined delegates from the IAFF from across the country in paying tribute to the memories of the 343 members of the New York City Fire Department who perished almost a decade ago. While remembering those that were lost, Secretary Napolitano also reiterated the important role that all first responders play in making our nation more secure, safe and resilient.
During her remarks, Secretary Napolitano underscored the resiliency of the country - noting that today, first responders nationwide are better equipped, better trained and better prepared to respond to terrorist attacks, natural disasters or other large-scale emergencies.
Since 2002, the Department of Homeland Security has awarded more than $6 billion in fire grant funding through the Federal Emergency Management Administration’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG), Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grants (SAFER) and Fire Prevention and Safety Grants (FP&S)—providing vital support to fire departments across the country through critical all-hazards training and equipment for fire services. Additionally, SAFER grants provide financial assistance to help fire departments retain and recruit firefighters, or to rehire firefighters that have been laid off.
For more information, visit www.dhs.gov.