Today is the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and, therefore, we wanted to take a pause from our regularly-scheduled tree content to remember those who lost their lives and those who are still impacted to this day.
20 years ago today, the lives of many Americans changed drastically. Anyone over a certain age probably remembers this event with horror. Most of us can recall the exact moment when we found out about the four planes that unexpectedly changed their course on the morning of September 11, 2001 and subsequently altered the course of American history forever.
Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives and another 6,000 were injured. What’s more, this event is still impacting first responders who worked the rescue efforts to this very day. More than 400 of those who were killed on 9/11/2001 were first responders. Since then, over 1,400 rescue workers from 09/11 have succumbed to injuries and illnesses after the fact including chronic lung conditions, cancer, and more.
These facts are sobering, but we felt it was important to shed light on the enormous sacrifice first responders have made (and are still making).
20 years later, first responders are on the front lines of yet another pivotal moment in our history. As they work to keep us safe, first responders are particularly susceptible to COVID-19 and sometimes don’t have the option to social distance, especially when it’s required as part of their jobs.
To honor our heroes for their daily sacrifices in service of our safety, security, and health, RTEC Treecare has partnered with the Environmental Justice Alliance (EJA) to donate complimentary tree maintenance services through EJA’s At Ease program. Click here to learn more about the program or to nominate yourself or a loved one.
