The harrowing events of Sept. 11, 2001, forever changed the United States when close to 3,000 Americans tragically lost their lives in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Despite those horrible events, many people – from ordinary citizens to trained first responders – acted heroically on that day and in the aftermath of the attacks. Dedicated public servants from all across the ranks of local, state, and the federal government worked to confront the unprecedented challenges brought by that day to keep America safer in the future.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Paul Zukunft encourages people to watch a video that recounts the collective waterside response efforts on that day.

“Today, we remember. Fourteen years after the 9/11 attacks, we remember the nearly 3,000 lives that were taken far too soon. We also remember the thousands who answered the call on that day and those who have defended our Nation in the ensuing years,” said Zukunft. “I encourage you to watch ‘Boatlift’, a short film that pays tribute to first responders who led the largest maritime evacuation in history. Let us never forget the lives lost on this day and those who continue to protect America and our freedom. Today, we remember.”