Steel From The World Trade Center
By Dave Rosenberg, Yolo County Supervisor, 4th District
Some say that the United States' Flag is just a piece of cloth. Some say that
the Pledge of Allegiance is just words. And some might say that this section
of girder from the World Trade Center is just a piece of steel.
But I say they are wrong. The Flag is much more than its cloth. The Pledge is more than words. And this section of girder is far more than just steel.
I can say that with certainty. Because ever since I proposed that we contact the Office of the Mayor of New York City and seek to bring a section of steel girder from the World Trade Center, my office has been inundated with calls and inquiries from the public and the press. I've received letters, financial donations, offers to help, and phone calls. From relatives of people who were there in New York, from Mayors and firefighters, from those who were touched in some way by the horror that occurred on September 11th when thousands of our fellow human beings were murdered in an act of cowardice and terror.
My friends, never underestimate the power of a symbol. This steel represents the tragedy of that terrible day, but it also represents the heroism shown by firefighters, police, and emergency workers. It represents the day America changed. It represents the strength of our resolve. And it represents the steel of the American spirit.
My colleagues on the Yolo County Board of Supervisors and I will meet in the coming months to ensure that this section of steel girder from the World Trade Center will forever memorialize for us the events of 9-11. We welcome public input in that process. My belief is that the steel will rise up again in the construction of a new public building, or in an appropriate monument. This steel is as tough, as resilient, and as timeless as the spirit of America. We are proud to receive it in our County.