For Immediate Release
September 9, 2005
|
Washington D.C.
FBI National Press Office
(202) 324-3691
|
A Message from the
Director
Four years ago, our nation was stunned by the
terrible events unfolding at the World Trade Center, at the Pentagon, and
in Pennsylvania. At the same time we witnessed the horror of those attacks,
we witnessed the incomparable courage demonstrated by those who disregarded
their own safety in responding to the disaster scenes.
Our own Lenny Hatton was one of those who, despite
the danger, selflessly assisted in the evacuation of the World Trade Center.
He was last seen helping a victim out of one of the buildings and rushing
back in to save more.
Today, President George W. Bush presented the
9/11 Heroes Medal of Valor to the families of Special Agent Leonard W. Hatton
and the 441 other public safety officers who died in the September 11, 2001
terrorist attacks. The Medal of Valor is the nation's highest award for law
enforcement officers who perform acts above and beyond the call of duty exhibiting
exceptional courage, extraordinary decisiveness, and presence of mind, as
well as unusual swiftness of action regardless of personal safety in an attempt
to save or protect human life. The 9/11 Heroes Medal of Valor was created
specifically to recognize those public safety officers who lost their lives
that day.
This is a fitting tribute to those whose ultimate
sacrifice saved so many. The impact of their courage is not limited to September
11. In truth, it will be felt for years to come -- both in the lives of those
they rescued from dire situations, and in the hearts of those who witnessed
their bravery.
Lenny Hatton's actions on September 11, 2001,
exemplify the best of our nation. As his family receives his 9/11 Heroes
Medal of Valor today, let us again pay tribute to his courage and honor his
remarkable example of service and sacrifice.
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