Sep. 10, 2004

Gov. Rick Perry Observes 3rd Anniversary of Terrorist Attacks By Honoring Texas First Responders

Also Presents 'Star of Texas' Awards to Three Texans for Their Bravery

AUSTIN –Gov. Rick Perry today marked the third anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States by praising police, firefighters and other first responders for their heroism during emergencies and by awarding Star of Texas Awards to three individuals for their bravery, courage, and determination in assisting others.

Perry also issued an executive order directing that all state flags be flown at half-staff on Saturday and asking Texans to observe a moment of silence at 7:46 a.m. CDT in memory of the more than 3,000 innocent people who lost their lives on that tragic day.

“Three years ago tomorrow, our nation suffered its greatest tragedy on American soil,” Perry said. “On that darkest of days, we saw the most dreadful side of humanity, but we also witnessed a remarkable heroism.

“The images are forever burned in our nation’s conscience: hundreds of men and women – driven by courage and a sacred oath to protect – wading upstream through a river of fleeing victims to save those who could not save themselves. Our nation wept for each of the 3,000 innocent people who died that day, including the 479 first responders who laid down their lives in service.”

Perry said that Sept. 11th instilled in all Texans a renewed sense of appreciation for all men and women who are first upon the scene of tragedy.

“As the third anniversary of Sept. 11th approaches, I ask all Texans to pause in a spirit of remembrance for those who gave their lives that day, and those members of our Armed Forces who have given their lives in the War on Terror,” Perry said. “I also ask Texans to recognize the courage of our first responders – the men and women that run into a burning home to save a child, give life-saving medical treatment to the critically injured and step into harm’s way to protect the innocent.”

Perry honored three Texans for their bravery: Police Officer Scott Poole, Emergency Medical Technician Paul Lujan and Firefighter Charles Krenek as the first recipients of the Star of Texas awards.

Last year the Texas Legislature approved, and Perry signed into law, legislation designating Sept. 11 as Texas First Responders Day and establishing the “Star of Texas” awards to honor those who have shown bravery and courage by helping others in emergency situations.

Communities from across the state were invited to submit nominations for the Star of Texas Awards; selections were made by three separate advisory committees, one for each category of first responder.

“Whether they are here today in body or spirit, a grateful state offers its deepest gratitude and highest praise,” Perry said.

Odessa flight paramedic Paul Lujan gave his life trying to save the life of a sick child. On March 21, Paul boarded a Care Star flight to transport 3-month old Pedro Urias Modesto and his mother to Lubbock for emergency medical treatment. Their helicopter crashed in inclement weather, claiming four lives and seriously injuring one.

Wichita Falls Police Officer Scott Poole was shot in the left shoulder and seriously injured while executing a search and arrest warrant with his narcotics team. In the spirit of a true Texas hero, he tried to switch his weapon to his right hand to keep engaging the suspect and protect his fellow officers.

Lufkin firefighter Charles Krenek gave his life trying to bring comfort and closure to families that had lost loved ones. He died on March 27 last year when his helicopter crashed on a search and recovery mission for the space shuttle Columbia.

Perry told family members and coworkers who lost loved ones in the line of duty that the sympathy and prayers of the people of Texas are with them.

“I know that words cannot mend your broken hearts, but I want you to know how much the people of Texas appreciate your sacrifice,” Perry said.

“The price that you bear has given life to others, afforded the rest of us safety and ensured that other spouses, parents, children and friends do not have to experience your grief.”