09/11/2026
Twenty-five years ago today, our nation was changed forever.
On September 11, 2001 – 2,977 innocent lives were taken in acts of unimaginable terror. In the midst of that tragedy, we also witnessed extraordinary courage – firefighters, police officers, paramedics, service members, and everyday Americans running toward danger, helping strangers, and putting others before themselves.
For those in public safety, 9/11 carries a special weight. We remember the 343 FDNY firefighters, 23 NYPD officers, 37 Port Authority police officers, and the many other first responders who gave their lives that day – as well as those who have suffered and died in the years since from illnesses connected to their service at Ground Zero.
But remembering 9/11 is about more than recalling a tragedy. It is about remembering the lives that were lost, the families forever changed, the courage shown in our darkest hours, and the sense of unity that reminded us just how much we share as Americans.
A generation has now grown up with no personal memory of that morning. That makes our responsibility to remember – and to teach why we remember – even more important.
Today, the Austin Police Association pauses to honor the fallen, the survivors, the families, and every person who answered the call to serve.
We remember the sacrifice. We remember the courage. We will never forget.
🇺🇸 September 11, 2001
