Governor McCrory Thanks North Carolina’s First Responders on Anniversary of 9/11 | Eastern North Carolina Now

News Release:

    Raleigh, N.C.     Governor Pat McCrory is thanking the state's first responders for the risks they take every day to keep North Carolina safe. In a video message released recognizing the anniversary of 9/11, the governor recalled the bravery first responders demonstrated during that day 14 years ago.

    "It was a day of tragedy, but it was also a day of heroism," said Governor McCrory. "The thing I remember most were the first responders who risked their lives with absolutely no hesitation to go into the World Trade Center or The Pentagon to save lives with no thought to the risk of their own lives."

    Governor McCrory said the actions of first responders on 9/11 helped him and the country realize that first responders all over the country are willing to do whatever is necessary to protect others and that citizens should never take them for granted.

    "It means so much to us to have you at a moment's notice, to risk your life, and I just want to say you are appreciated, and we will never take you for granted," said Governor McCrory.

    In the video, Governor McCrory recalled how he was reminded of the sacrifices first responders make on the night of his first State of the State address in 2013, when he learned that NC Highway Patrol Trooper Michael Potts had been shot during a traffic stop.

    "Immediately upon leaving that speech, I asked what was the condition of the trooper," said Governor McCrory. "We got in the car to go see Trooper Potts, a man I had never met before in my life. His family was there, his colleagues were there, and everyone was praying for his survival and quick recovery."

    Governor McCrory said it is first responders like Trooper Michael Potts who should be thanked and recognized.

    "It is Michael Potts and other first responders, whether it be in the Raleigh Fire Department or the state highway troopers, that I want to say thank you to," continued Governor McCrory.

    The Governor taped his message at Raleigh's Central Fire Station in downtown Raleigh.

    To view the video, click here.


    Contact: Crystal Feldman
       govpress@nc.gov