First responders show dedication and courage daily by being on the front
lines when disasters occur. In the attack on the World Trade Center in New
York City in 2001 when thousands of people were killed or injured, more
than four hundred emergency workers also lost their lives. In honor of first responders, the US Senate designated September 12 as the National Day
of Encouragement. It was first announced in 2007 and has been celebrated
each year ever since.