Remarks on 9/11 Anniversary

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Good morning.

I retired a little over 6 years ago.

The Video Production Unit that I ran was a bit unusual. We had a direct report to the Deputy Commissioner of Training when the Police Academy was in this building on the 20th Street side. But we also got assignments directly from the Police Commissioner. Many, many times I had to call the Deputy Commissioner of Training and say something like, “You know that top priority we had? Well, now that’s my second top priority...”

I was always in meetings with the top command staff, both uniformed and civilian. And I developed close working relationships with them and their staffs.

Now, just a few years later, they are all gone. I started to feel like no one would remember me. No one would know who I am.

But today we come together to say that the NYPD always remembers. We honor the courageous, dedicated women and men who answered the call 22 years ago and who made the ultimate sacrifice doing it.

Yes, we remember them. And for me that especially includes Police Officer Glen Pettit, who was one of the most gifted videographers I’ve ever met.

But in remembering them, we remember all the members of the NYPD – uniformed and civilian – who for nearly two centuries have committed their lives to making this City a safer, better place; who have protected the vulnerable; who have fostered liberty.

That means you. That means that everyone in this City knows who you are. And they will remember you through the legacy that you leave.

We have the privilege and the challenge to come to work every day and make a difference, a difference in the lives of real people. How many can say that?

So together let us dedicate ourselves to remembering. We always remember. We never forget. We are the NYPD.

Thank you for your kind attention.