2006 Man of the Year

Joseph Crowley

We have known Joseph Crowley for many years. He is one of the “good guys” in politics. He really cares about his neighbors and his constituents. He works hard to make a difference. He has and continues to make our nation better, safer, more secure, more educated, more tolerant and more proactive.

In the aftermath of 9-11, everyone in the nation rallied to help. Congressman Crowley focused on the familes and their needs. He had lost a cousin. Battalion Chief John Moran was one of the 343 fallen firefighters that died at the World Trade Center. He understood how devastating it was to lose someone that he loved. He began his mission to give all the rescue workers’ families a special recognition for the death of their loved ones in the line of duty. He was vigilant and continued to speak with all of his colleagues in Congress to secure the Medal of Valor for the rescue workers families. He was very humble and never once sought the glory of his success. All of us knew how hard he worked. All of us are profoundly grateful for his perseverance.

On September 9, 2005, the families of all of the rescue workers from the World Trade Center, Washington D.C. and Shanksville PA who lost their lives were invited to the White House lawn to receive these special medals from the President of the United States, George W. Bush. We listened as the President spoke to us and honored our loved ones. “These medals represent the Nation’s gratitude,” the President said, for the sacrifice that was made on that day.
Although our loved ones will never be with us in person, we know that our son Christopher smiled on September 9, 2005 when we received this special medal in his honor. He was very proud to be an American. He would be very proud that we are honoring such a dedicated and honorable Congressman.

Thank you Joe, for helping us “heal.” Thank you for being our friend and supporter in our efforts to keep September 11, 2001 and our son Christopher’s memory alive forever. Thank you for all you do each and every day to make our country safer and better.

We are so very pleased to give you this award. You are truly our “Man of the Year.”

To learn more about 2006’s Person of the Year, Joseph Crowley, please visit http://crowley.house.gov/info_about_cong.shtml.