- Michael Balaban,
President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia 

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the horrific 9/11 terrorist attacks on America. The events of that day cross my mind quite often — the valor of those we lost — 2,977 victims — those who innocently went to work that day and the brave souls who went in after them, those working recovery who have passed from 9/11 related illnesses, those still suffering, and the families of each of them. All gave some, some gave all. 

As a volunteer firefighter I carry a number of items in my gear pockets. A rescue knife, rope, hydrant wrench, wire cutters, door jam, flashlight to name a few. Among these vital rescue tools is a copy of Alan Jankowski’s 9/11 memorial tribute. Two of the stanzas are as follows:

Actions taken without regret,
Heroisms we shall never forget,
The ones who paid the ultimate price,
Let's never forget their sacrifice.

And never forget the ones no longer here, 
Who fought for the freedoms we all hold dear,
And may their memory never wane, 
Lest their sacrifices be in vain.

Like so many of my peers, I have experienced the loss of fellow firefighters and first responders. Some known to me and others I have only heard of. All of these losses are felt in the moment and in the memory. One reason I carry Jankowski’s memorial tribute is to honor the losses – “let's never forget their sacrifice.”  It is also a reminder “lest their sacrifices be in vain” to take action and respond forward to others around me. 

As you go about this September 11th, take pause to remember the sacrifices of those lost. Most importantly, pledge an action forward to others in your community.  

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The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is committed to ensuring the safety and vibrance of our Jewish communities locally and overseas.