SMETHPORT — The McKean County Commissioners issued a 9/11 Day Proclamation at their meeting Tuesday, proclaiming September 11 as a day of service and remembrance in the county.

Commissioner Carol Duffy read the document, which recounts how American came together in a remarkable spirit of patriotism and unity, carrying out countless acts of kindness, generosity and compassion following the worst attack on American soil and in the nation’s history.

In 2002, the proclamation states, “family members of those killed and injured on 9/11 joined with first responders and others to create ‘9/11 Day’ as a way to annually and forever encourage all Americans to remember and pay tribute on the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks through acts of service, including volunteerism, and to keep Americans’ promise to ‘Never Forget.’”

On the twentieth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, it is fitting to pay tribute to the strength and resilience of the American people through service to our nation and our commonwealth.

The proclamation recognizes the county’s founding in a long- standing tradition of patriotism and values the service of of our veterans, first responders and public servants that is woven throughout our daily lives, and at this time each year, our local communities take time to reflect on the loss, honor the heroism and to show gratitude for their sacrifice.