Heroes by the thousands emerged on the day that America sustained the worst attack ever on its homeland. None of these heroes were more brave and selfless than New York City Firefighters, Police Officers and Emergency Service Officers, and New York/New Jersey Port Authority Police Officers.

Hundreds of them paid the ultimate price - their lives - so others could live. To a person, they will say they did what they are trained to do. They run toward danger when everyone else is running away. Their actions came on September 11th not because of training or job requirements - but because they are the best of America. 

There were other heroes on that day - thousands of construction workers who rushed to the World Trade Center, unwittingly serving as the war's first volunteers on bucket brigade lines alongside firefighters and rescue workers, digging by hand in hopes of finding survivors. They risked life and limb not for pay or accolades - but because they, too, are the best of America.

Because of all these heroes, New York City was able to withstand this cataclysmic terrorist attack. They have shown the world America's enduring freedom- that our buildings can be toppled, but our spirit and will can never be broken.

When you happen upon any of the thousands of volunteers who provided their muscle, or distributed food, water, clothing, or offered other types of support, be sure to thank them. When you see a New York City Firefighter or Police Officer, an Emergency Service Rescue Officer or Port Authority Officer thank them for being on the front lines of America's new war. Shake their hand. Give them a smile or a nod of encouragement. Words of thanks and a handshake may seem an inadequate way of acknowledging their heroism. But to them, it means the world. It restores their faith and courage. Next time they run into harm's way, your smile, thanks and encouragement will be right behind them.

Understanding the reason for the profound loss of life in the World Trade Center terrorist attack is beyond human comprehension. As we continue to mourn the loss of all those who perished for the sake of freedom in New York City, Washington, DC and Pennsylvania, we can only offer comfort and prayer to their families. History has recorded them as heroes of war.

Surely our hearts are heavy with grief, too, for the families of New York City Firefighters, Police Officers, Emergency Service Officers, New York/New Jersey Port Authority Police Officers and those who died so valiantly trying to save others, without giving their own safety a second thought. They, too, are heroes of war.

As Firefighters, Police Officers and Emergency Service Rescue Crews continue the sad work of recovering the remains of those who perished and bring closure to hundreds of families; as volunteers continue to provide a multitude of services; as construction workers continue the methodical task of removing ton upon ton of the pulverized remains of the Twin Towers; as utility workers in the energy and telecommunications industries continue to get New York City up and running; as New Yorkers pick themselves up and the Big Apple goes about its business; and as the outpouring of love and support comes from the world over, our faith and confidence is fully restored that good will always prevail over evil.