Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. issued the following statement today, in recognition of the 15th anniversary of 9/11:

“Today is the 15th anniversary of perhaps the greatest tragedy to affect our city and our nation: the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center of September 11, 2001.

“On this day our nation was brutally attacked in the name of misguided hate, causing the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. My own borough lost 144 individuals in this tragedy, and people of The Bronx offer their special prayers to their neighbors who perished 15 years ago today.

“We must also remember those who responded so quickly without thoughts for their own safety, our first responders of the New York Police Department, the Fire Department of New York and others.  They came without reservation, without hesitation, focused solely on those who needed rescue that day.

“On this solemn occasion, I join together with all the families of the victims to mourn their loss with a broken heart and offer comfort to my brothers and sisters in this time of need. Today, on this day of remembrance, prayer and healing, I offer my thoughts and prayers, and those of the entire Bronx, to the victims of this tragedy, their families and their friends. I wish them peace and pray for their comfort on this difficult day,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.