A Column from the Desk of Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C-Deerpark)
I often think back to that September 11, 2001, and remember a simpler time. I was just a young candidate for Orange County Legislator, preparing for my first primary election. At 22, like many young adults, I felt indestructible. I believed that we, as a country, were too. But that morning shattered that illusion. On that fateful day, 2,977 lives were lost in the deadliest terrorist attack our nation has ever faced. The destruction of the Twin Towers was immediate, but the aftermath stretched far beyond the collapse. It took New York City ten months to clear the wreckage and begin the long process of rebuilding. Ground Zero was a scene of continuous work, day and night, as law enforcement, first responders, firefighters, civil workers and volunteers – from all over the country – labored together to restore some semblance of normalcy. Yet the damage was deeper than we could imagine. Beyond the physical loss of the towers, thousands of lives were displaced, forever changed. The health impact on those in the area at the time has been devastating. Toxic dust, filled with asbestos, lead, mercury and other dangerous materials, poisoned the air.
Today, many of the first responders who were there suffer from diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, cancer, and the lingering psychological trauma of that day. As your Assemblyman, I have been dedicated to supporting first responders, especially those impacted by 9/11. I co-sponsored a bill which seeks to provide state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers who meet service and training requirements. I’ve also advocated for stronger workers’ compensation benefits for 9/11 responders, ensuring they can access the support they deserve without facing unnecessary delays. These are just a few small ways we can give back to those who have sacrificed so much for our community, and especially to those who responded on that tragic day.
There is nothing more American than the spirit of resilience. As we remember the lives lost and the heroism displayed, we also honor the strength that defines us as New Yorkers and Americans. It is this unwavering determination that makes me proud to serve the people of this state every day. Assemblyman Brabenec represents the 98th District, which includes the city of Port Jervis, the towns of Deerpark, Greenville, Mount Hope, Wawayanda, Minisink, Warwick, Tuxedo and portions of the towns of Goshen, Monroe and Ramapo. For more information, please visit his Official Website at www.yourfavoriteassemblyman.com.
