Executive Council
Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs
September 11, 2014

Government Acknowledges Efforts of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians on 13th Anniversary of the 9/11 Tragedy

Today the Provincial Government is remembering all those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and paying tribute to the Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who answered the call to assist passengers stranded in airports across the province during that time.

“On that tragic day 13 years ago, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, together with our friends in the United States and around the world, watched an unspeakable tragedy unfold. As we were transfixed by the unfolding horror, volunteers and first responders across this province sprang into action to help displaced passengers find food and shelter. We will forever have a connection to the events of that day, and will stand in awe of the heroic efforts of all who lent a hand.”
- The Honourable Tom Marshall, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

During the 9/11 tragedy and resulting grounding of all air traffic in Canada and the United States, passengers from 75 flights took refuge in communities across the province including Gander, St. John’s, Stephenville, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Deer Lake. Residents welcomed these strangers into their homes for days, serving meals and providing beds for thousands of stranded individuals from around the world.

“The events of September 11, 2001 will never be forgotten by those who lost loved ones, or by those in this province who opened their homes to those in need. Our first responders and volunteers went above and beyond the call of duty during those dark days, and demonstrated their commitment and tirelessness when faced with challenging circumstances. As a government and as a province we will always remember their contributions.”
- The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs

The September 11 attacks in New York City, the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and Pennsylvania killed almost 3,000 people.

QUICK FACTS

  • The Provincial Government is recognizing the efforts of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians on the 13th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy.
  • Passengers from over 75 flights took refuge in communities across the province including Gander, St. John’s, Stephenville, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Deer Lake.
  • The September 11 attacks in New York City, the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and Pennsylvania killed almost 3,000 people.

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Media contacts:
Milly Brown
Director of Communications
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
millybrown@gov.nl.ca
Kevin Guest
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
709-729-4304, 730-2320
kevinjguest@gov.nl.ca
Hugh Donnan
Director of Communications
Department of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs
709-729-1983, 725-6511
hughdonnan@gov.nl.ca

2014 09 11                                             1:15 p.m.