FORT CARSON, Colo. -- Although a specific figure could not be determined, it was estimated that 3,000 people lost their lives Sept. 11, 2001, as a result of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City.
Among this number were more than 2,600 people in the Twin Towers, including nearly 250 citizens from other countries, and, on the ground, some 400 emergency workers who responded to the scene. Excluding the hijackers, also lost were 246 U.S. citizens on four aircraft; and at the Pentagon an additional 125 people, to include 55 servicemembers.
As most remember, Sept. 11, 2001, was a day that not only shook the nation but forever changed the way Americans live. As a result of the attacks, the largest federal government overhaul since 1947 took place with the formation of the Department of Homeland Security. Its 2004 budget of $36.2 billion has grown to a staggering proposed 2012 budget of $57 billion.
Emergency preparedness and response helps the nation to prepare for, mitigate the effects of, respond to and recover from major domestic disasters -- both natural and manmade, including incidents of terrorism. Sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, National Preparedness Month is a monthlong federally-recognized awareness campaign occurring every September to improve the nation's preparedness.
In an effort to recognize and promote National Preparedness Month, Garrison Commander Col. Robert F. McLaughlin has issued a proclamation declaring September 2011 as "Carson Ready Community Awareness Month," which focuses on inspiring Soldiers, Family members and the civilian workforce to take meaningful action to make themselves, and the Fort Carson community, better prepared for any hazardous incident.
To assist in these endeavors, the Fort Carson Emergency Management Working Group and Army Community Service will have a "Ready Army/Carson Ready" display, where community members can receive readiness information, set up between the ACS building and the commissary Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Directorate of Emergency Services will also have fire and police personnel on site to answer questions. In addition, a free hot dog lunch, courtesy of the commissary, is being offered to those who attend the event.
Social Sharing