WHEREAS, this year marks the eighth anniversary of the terrorist attacks carried out against our nation on September 11, 2001; and in recognition of this solemn commemoration, days of prayer and remembrance have been set side to remember the thousands of lives lost, and the innocent men, women and children forever changed by those acts; and

WHEREAS, on that fateful September morning, we were reminded that the great strength of America is found in the hearts and souls of its citizens, as we witnessed police officers, firefighters, rescue personnel, members of the military and private citizens demonstrating extraordinary courage and risking their lives to save innocent victims, and our country united in compassion as Americans came together to provide relief and bring hope to others; and

WHEREAS, despite the senseless loss of innocent lives and the horror witnessed by people around the world, we can now look at September 11 and see something more than pain -- we can see strength, heroism and unity; and

WHEREAS, today and every day, we pray for our brave men and women in uniform who are serving at home and abroad to protect their homeland and advance liberty around the world, and we pray for the families of those who have lost their lives or have been injured defending the freedoms we cherish every day; and

WHEREAS, we will never forget the brave friends and loved ones who perished that day, nor the amazing acts of selflessness -- courageous first responders risked and gave their lives to protect others; incredible men and women did everything from thwarting hijackers to gathering aid for victims and their families; and countless individuals enlisted in the armed forces to keep our homeland safe; and

WHEREAS, this nation’s resolve to confront terror and leave behind a legacy of peace will be the greatest memorial to the victims of September 11, 2001, and to those who have paid the ultimate price to preserve the blessings of this great nation for future generations;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mayor Jim Haggerton, Mayor of the City of Tukwila, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2009:

Patriot Day

in the City of Tukwila, and encourage all citizens, businesses and employees to join in remembering those who gave of themselves on September 11, 2001. SIGNED THIS   11th   DAY OF   September  , 2009.

Jim Haggerton, Mayor of Tukwila