Comrades and fellow members of the Veterans of Steel,
Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
As Canadians, we remember that day not only as an attack on our neighbours and closest allies, but as a moment that reminded the world of the courage, sacrifice and service of ordinary people placed in extraordinary circumstances.
We remember the thousands of lives that were lost, the families who were forever changed and the first responders who ran toward danger while others were running away. We remember firefighters, paramedics, police officers, military personnel, airline crews and countless others whose lives were impacted by those attacks and their aftermath.
As members of the Veterans of Steel, we also recognize the generations of Canadian men and women in uniform who answered the call in the years that followed. Their service came with a cost and their sacrifices are part of the story we remember today.
And as members of the labour movement, we understand something important about remembrance: we do not stand alone. We stand together. We look after our siblings. We recognize those who serve, those who protect and those who make sacrifices so that others can live in safety and freedom.
Canada has always been at its best when we stand together — united, compassionate and willing to help our neighbours in their time of need.
So, I ask everyone to please remove your headwear and join in a moment of silence.
Let us reflect on those whose lives were lost, those who were injured, those who served in the response and the families and communities that continue to carry the weight of that day.
Let us also be thankful. Thankful for those who serve, thankful for those who protect our communities and thankful for the freedoms and values we are privileged to share as Canadians.
Lest we forget.
Moment of silence.
Thank you. You may replace your headwear.
— USW District 3 Veterans of Steel Committee
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