On September 11^th, 2001, the United States of America endured one of the greatest tragedies in our Nation’s history that would alter the lives for many Americans in the decades to follow. Twenty years ago today, terrorists launched a coordinated attack that resulted in the loss of nearly 3,000 innocent American citizens in New York, New York; Arlington, Virginia; and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. More than 6,000 additional people suffered life altering injuries.

The attacks on September 11^th changed a generation of Americans, and the world. The devastation and destruction that occurred twenty years ago did not condemn our country to a fear-filled future. Instead, the profound loss made America stronger. The courage, heroism, and resilience Americans displayed on 9/11, and in its aftermath, are perpetual testaments to the spirit of our country. September 11^th reinvigorated Americans with pride and patriotism and created a new spirit of service in the hearts of a new generation.

Today, we recognize Patriot Day in Auburn Hills. We stand in solidarity to remember the victims and mourn their stolen hopes and dreams. This Patriot Day, we commemorate the lives of those who perished on September 11, 2001, we pray for the families who carry on their legacies, and we honor the unmatched bravery of our Nation’s first responders. The City of Auburn Hills will never forget all of those that lost their lives in the horrific 9/11 terrorist attacks, and all the Americans that have risked their lives to prevent another 9/11 from happening again