TORONTO, Sept. 11 /CNW/ - It is with great sadness that all Ontarians

today remember the terrible events of September 11, 2001. None of us will ever

forget the moment when we first heard about this act of terrorism.

    Today, we honour and remember the innocent victims and the many people

who lost husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, relatives,

friends and co-workers.

    We remember the bravery of rescue workers, firefighters and police

officers who gave their lives so that others could return to their families.

We appreciate the strength and determination of all those who serve on the

front lines of law enforcement and public safety, and we are reminded that

they deserve our respect and support.

    Although hate and terror struck a blow, caring and compassion carried the

day. Ordinary citizens - here in Ontario and around the world - opened their

hearts to shattered families and their homes to stranded travellers. Canadians

were among the many people around the globe who stood shoulder-to-shoulder

with our American friends in the name of peace, freedom and democracy.

    Though time carries on, we cannot let time diminish what happened on that

day. We must remain forever vigilant. There can be no greater tribute to the

memories of those who died than to be tireless in our efforts to ensure that a

tragedy like that of September 11, 2001, never happens again.

    I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to all those who lost loved

ones and friends on September 11. In order to pay our respects, the Ontario

government will lower its flags and observe a moment of silence today at 10:29

a.m. I encourage all Ontarians to not only remember, but to renew our efforts

to promote understanding, tolerance and respect in our province and throughout

the world.