
The following message was released to all Department of Homeland Security personnel by DHS Acting Secretary Rand Beers.
September 10, 2013
Dear Colleagues,

Tomorrow marks the twelfth anniversary of the horrific attacks of September 11, 2001 on our nation. As we honor the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on 9/11 and their families, we are reminded of why we rise to the challenge every day to fulfill our mission of combating terrorism and protecting the homeland and the public at large.
The men and women of DHS have contributed greatly to a Department that has become smarter, more flexible, and more agile in how we, as a nation, prepare for, respond to and recover from a crisis or disaster.
As we remember the tragedy that led to the establishment of this Department a decade ago, the safety and security of the American public remains our highest priority — on important dates like the anniversary of 9/11, and every day. Without a doubt, due to your efforts, and those of whom have come before you, our nation is stronger than it was twelve years ago, more prepared to confront and prevent constantly evolving threats, and more resilient.
Thank you for the sacrifices you have made, and for your ongoing service to our nation.
Sincerely yours,
Rand Beers
Acting Secretary
I was an Auxiliarist who qualified to be a watchstander at Station Sandy Hook (sector NY) after 9/11. I was honored to work with the courageous men and women in the Coast Guard who showed such fierce determination to protect our country after that sorry event. I will never forget that time, nor the heroism of the Coast Guardsmen who came from all over the country to defend our nation.
Semper Paratus!