WHEREAS, a decade has passed since the unimaginable events of September 11, 2001, and in commemorating this tenth anniversary, we reflect upon the profound sadness and loss experienced by all Americans; and

          WHEREAS, as New Yorkers, we remain indebted to our fellow citizens and people worldwide who offered great comfort and support during our most trying times through countless acts of compassion and kindness; and

          WHEREAS, in the aftermath of this day of unforgettable devastation and pain for our state and nation, we recognize the individuals from all walks of life who rallied together to take action and to exemplify the best of America – a country where charitable kindness exists in unlimited abundance; and

         WHEREAS, we will forever be grateful to the first responders, those courageous men and women who put themselves in peril, many of whom lost their lives, to save the lives of others; and

          WHEREAS, we remember and pay tribute to those who were lost to the family of humankind and vow never to forget their lives and legacies; and

          WHEREAS, we honor on this anniversary the strength and courage of our nation's armed forces, including many sons and daughters of New York State who are today engaged in defending the principles of democracy; we pray vigilantly each and every day for their success and safe return home; and

          WHEREAS, in marking the ten-year anniversary of September 11, 2001, let us, as witnesses to history, vow never to forget the horror of that day and to honor the memories of all who were lost by teaching our younger generations about the devastation wrought, our renewed commitment to America's bedrock values, and our resolve to ensure that such horrors never take place again;

          NOW, THEREFORE, I, Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2011 as

A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND REFLECTION

in the Empire State, paying solemn tribute to the memory of those we loved and lost.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State

at the Capitol in the City of Albany this sixth day

of September in the year two thousand eleven.

BY THE GOVERNOR   

Secretary to the Governor