Not all American heroes make headlines. In fact, most don't. They don't seek the spotlight and they don't need slaps on the back. American heroes go to work every morning, do a good job and provide for their families.
We celebrate our heroes on Sept. 11, just as we mourn the innocent victims of that day.
Sept. 11 marks a time when Americans grieve and remember our terrible losses. But it's also a time when we celebrate the patriotism, courage and valor of public servants and extraordinary citizens.
Heroism manifested itself that day in people from all walks of life. Travelers flying from New Jersey to California said goodbye to their loved ones, prayed together and one said, "Let's roll!" Hundreds knowingly sacrificed their lives so that hundreds more in our nation's capital could live.
Police and firefighters in New York City ran up the stairs of the twin towers. Looking to save lives, they lost their own.
Today, we honor our heroes, those who perished in the line of duty, and those who proudly serve us today.
Our U.S. soldiers continue to serve our nation and the world, from the soaring mountains of Afghanistan to the seering deserts of Iraq. Georgians have played a proud and important role in the war on terror, as have the state's military bases such as Fort Benning in the 11th Congressional District.
Other men and women in uniform, firefighters and police officers in the 11th District [or insert county here] serve us every day on the homefront.
We thank our everyday heroes all for their dedication to their communities and to their country. We honor soldiers, firefighters and police officers today as we remember those who died two years ago.
