As we commemorate the 10th anniversary of Sept. 11, many of us remember the tragedy of the attacks on our nation and the heroes that showed such bravery.
We must never forget that day and the men and women who sacrificed their lives to protect us, and our neighbors, friends and loved ones who innocently lost their lives 10 years ago.
When America is challenged we become unified and rise to whatever is necessary to defend our liberty because doing so is a part of our culture. The perseverance and sacrifices shown Sept. 11, 2001 by our police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians are the reason America stands strong.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, the Michigan House of Representatives hosted a special ceremony and honored Michigan’s first responders, the people who courageously serve and protect our communities every day.
It was a privilege to be accompanied by Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey, whose commitment to protecting our community is exactly what we wanted to pay tribute to.
Hundreds of guests and legislators attended the ceremony and listened to a keynote address given by Patrick Anderson, a survivor of the attack on the World Trade Center. In honoring those who died on that day, representatives of districts that lost residents in the attacks read the names of those victims.
The Michigan House plans to hold an annual event to honor first responders and the victims of 9-11.
As a mother of a son who is in the service and a legislator who serves on the House Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security, I am very aware of the sacrifices our military personnel, firefighters, police officers and all of America’s public servants and patriots make to keep us free and secure. I thank all of America’s heroes for your sacrifice and securing our freedom. My prayers will always be with you.

I look forward to hearing your comments on these important issues. Please feel free to contact me by calling (888) 373-0078 or emailing sharontyler@house.mi.gov.