Monument to Honor 9/11 First Responders and Survivors
New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced that a monument honoring the first responders who took action on 9/11 will be built in New York City. The monument will pay tribute to the heroes who lost their lives, as well as those survivors who continue to suffer from health issues related to the aftermath of the terrorist attack.
The announcement comes on the 15th anniversary of the attack and coincides with the Governor's 9/11 Motorcycle ride. Earlier today, more than 250 first responders representing fire and police stations across New York State joined the Governor and approximately 650 participants on a motorcycle ride down the West Side highway to the Ground Zero site.
"Fifteen years ago, New York's first responders, rushed into two towers engulfed in flames to save the lives of others without hesitation and then remained there for months to rebuild Lower Manhattan with downtown residents and workers," Governor Cuomo said.
"Their selflessness and bravery embodies the spirit of America and should never be forgotten. This monument will rightly serve as an eternal reminder of the courage, sacrifice and bravery demonstrated by our first responders and survivors in the aftermath of 9/11, and ensure that their legacy will never be forgotten."
As part of the request for proposal process, proposers will be required to submit a plan identifying the location and the design of the monument. As New Yorkers and Americans continue to mourn the loss of these heroes who lost their lives responding to the 9/11 attacks, the monument will serve as an important reminder of the victims of September 11 and honor the countless heroes who came from across the state to help in the clean-up and recovery efforts.
Medical Benefits
Cuomo also signed legislation to extend the period for workers and volunteers seeking lost wage and medical benefits as a result of their involvement in the September 11 rescue, recovery and clean-up operations.
The bill (S5745-C/A7958-C) extends the deadline for individuals to register under the WTC Disability Law until September 11, 2018. The extension will allow additional individuals to receive workers’ compensation, disability, and accidental death benefits as a result of their participation in the WTC rescue, recovery, and clean-up operations.