[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 123 (Thursday, September 20, 2001)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1676-E1677] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] INTRODUCTION OF CONCURRENT RESOLUTION FOR THE ``FIRST RESPONDERS'' INJURED AT THE WTC, PENTAGON, AND IN PENNSYLVANIA ______ HON. J.C. WATTS of oklahoma in the house of representatives Thursday, September 20, 2001 Mr. WATTS of Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I introduce this Concurrent Resolution on behalf of myself, Rep. Engel and the other original House cosponsors. [[Page E1677]] The resolution expresses Congress' profound sorrow for the loss of life and injuries suffered by ``first responders'' as a result of their efforts to save innocent Americans in the aftermath of the World Trade Center, Pentagon and Pennsylvania terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. It also expresses our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the first responders who will never again return home. Last Tuesday, in New York City and at the Pentagon, law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel (first responders) were the first public service personnel on the scene of the attacks. If it were not for their heroic efforts immediately after these attacks, numerous innocent people would not be alive today. We also believe that it is important for America to better understand the activities and responsibilities of first responders. In addition to the everyday well-being, security and safety of Americans that depend upon first responders' official duties, the consequences of terrorist attacks also compel their service. In preparation for the these tragedies, first responders around the country plan, train and exercise for mass casualty events. Our resolution recognizes the hard work and dedication of ``first responder'' personnel for their anti-terrorism preparation efforts that many participate in on their own time. In addition, this resolution recognizes the hard work and dedication of first responders after the 1993 World Trade Center and 1995 Oklahoma City bombings. As the days in this session of Congress wind down, we must lead the nation to ensure that Americans are as protected as possible against future terrorist attacks. Congress must remain vigilant against other threats such as biological, chemical, nuclear, radiological attacks that terrorists may unleash on our shores in the future. I am going to fight to maintain and increase America's deterrence, prevention, preparation, and response abilities today and the coming tomorrows. ____________________