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For the 5th Anniversary of 9/11, OVC Director John W. Gillis Offers a Special Message Five years ago, on September 11, 2001, America was shaken by an unprecedented terrorist attack at home. A single day that shattered our sense of normalcy left us mourning for family members, friends, and for our nation. All of us became victims on that day. We all experienced the shock, the despair, and the sense of profound vulnerability that crime victims feel in the wake of tragedy. And, for a moment, our common suffering brought America together. Today, five years later, we stand with a resilient spirit remembering those that lost their lives and those whose lives have been changed forever as a result of the physical and emotional injuries they sustained. We must continue our support for the families and friends of those who were lost or injured, and for the many families whose grieving still continues. As we look back over the changes in our Nation and our way of life, we must remember the sacrifice of each individual whose loss we cannot replace, but whose spirits strengthen and encourage us. Each personal sacrifice is a call to the Nation to never forget such a tremendous loss and to treat every innocent victim of crime with compassion and dignity. This must continue to be a primary focus of our criminal justice system and our nation. As we once again take time to reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, I ask that you honor the memory of those who were lost and their surviving family members and friends. Lend compassion and support to those who were injured. Let us continue to pray for renewed strength, greater compassion, and a deeper commitment to improving the future for our country but especially for those who lost so much that day. May each of you find peace in the sincere expressions of sympathy and support and know that the entire nation shares your grief. We were all changed on that day, but to the family and friends who lost a loved one or were injured, your personal suffering saddens all of our hearts. Please know that we in the Office for Victims of Crime join our grief with yours. Our hearts are open in love and solemn in reflection. John W. Gillis, Director |
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