Where were you on September 11th, 2001? A common question or rhetorical phrase we hear as that horrendous day becomes more part of historical reference than something people personally experienced. Consider that many of the new employees at TSA were not even born 21 years ago—as we conduct our new hire classes throughout the country, we notice this more and more.
Many more new employees who were born, do not recall this catastrophic event because they were simply too young to remember. Those who do remember, know that our country was literally shut down for weeks. As a society, we were devastated. We gathered, prayed, believed, helped, and needed each other, together. During that time, we were truly united as a country.
September 11th, or Patriots Day, is a good time to reflect on why we are here; and if you happen to be one of those who were not yet born or too young to remember, you only need to relive these events through others’ eyes by watching video, listening to audio, or talking to coworkers.
Always remember that under our watch a 9-11-type catastrophe has never taken place—and regardless of your age, you are responsible for keeping America safe. While the job can become mundane, the tasks and tests tedious, and the verbiage and screening repetitive, take pride in your work, relish in your abilities, and savor our collective victory of keeping the terrorists at bay.
As we patiently, yet anxiously await full collective bargaining rights and GS pay equivalent, take time to remind yourselves, each other, and the powers that be, that we are worth more than we have been previously rendered. Do not stop believing in the Union’s fight, because we are closer than ever and just like our agency motto states, we will never forget all you do, day-in and day-out. This is the fuel that feeds the Union’s fire to continue fighting for you and your families.
Remember, stay engaged, stay vigilant, stay safe, and continue to be the best at what you do!
With Respect and Honor,
AFGE Council 100
Hydrick Thomas, President | Mac Johnson, Council Executive Vice President | Johnny Jones, Council Secretary-Treasurer | Thomas Schoregge, Region 1 V.P. | John Hubert, Region 2 V.P. | Janis Casey, Region 3 V.P. | Becky Mancha, Region 4 V.P. | Greg Biel, Region 5 V.P. | Bobby Orozco Jr., Region 6 V.P. | Joe Shuker, Region 7 V.P. | Victor Payes Martinez, Fair Practices Coordinator | Concetta Fialkowski, Women’s Coordinator | Christopher Blessing, AFGE Council 100 Attorney