Chief Grijalva's Weekly Memo

September 11, 2008

Chief Ruben D. Grijalva

“9/11 Remembered”

Seven years ago today terrorists attacked the United States of America.

Today is a time to reflect on the victims and heroes who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center in New York, on United Flight 93 in Shanksville, PA, and at the Pentagon in Washington DC.

This day will live forever in our memories and in our hearts.

A few weeks ago I visited New York. I had the opportunity to visit “Ground Zero” and the World Trade Center (WTC) Tribute Center. I was escorted by retired FDNY Firefighter Lee Ielpi who worked on FDNY Rescue 2 for many years. FDNY has 5 Rescue Units, one per Borough. All 5 were lost on September 11, 2001. Lee lost his son, FDNY firefighter Jonathan Ielpi, at the WTC.

Lee spent a great deal of his time talking to my 17 year old son, Paul. It was very important to him that people who were too young at the time to understand what happened on September 11, 2001 learn and “never forget” about the courage and selflessness of many Americans on that day. Lee’s words were very moving and a memorable experience for me, personally.

In honor of FDNY Firefighter Lee Ielpi and his son, Jonathan, I would encourage each of you to take time today to reflect on the events of 9/11 and to share those remembrances with someone who was too young at the time to understand what happened, and how it affected you personally. Let us “Never Forget!”

Regards,

Ruben Grijalva, Chief
Director