Common decency dictates that we not only value human life, but provide comfort for those heroes who risk life and limb to protect our country. On this Memorial Day, we honor those valiant heroes who have given their lives to secure and protect our freedoms on the battlefield. However, it must be noted that the same courtesy given to our soldiers ought to be extended to those public safety personnel who responded so courageously to the 9-11 tragedy.
Having said that, it's more than discouraging that Representative Mike Rogers (R-MI8) feels that 9-11 responders who suffered injuries and health troubles as a result of their heroic actions should be forced to petition the government on a yearly basis in order to receive due compensation.
Responding to the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, Rogers says,
“The way they’ve done this bill now, it jeopardizes the financial health of the United States of America,” said Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Mich. (Pecquet, 2010)
While our policemen and firefighters do have dangerous livelihoods that can be life-threatening, it is wrong-headed to compare the 9-11 event to the routine responsibilities these heroes face each day. Because the terrorist attack on America was an isolated and unprecedented event, we must not compare the response to it with routine police beats and house fires. It was a much more dangerous situation. The effects of this attack have influenced the lives of many people. We must view the manner in which we handle this matter to be an extraordinary response to an unusual situation.
Because of this, it is both good and proper to ensure that all 9-11 responders with legitimate health concerns are attended to with the best possible care. We must be certain that our nation cares for these citizens, many of whom are unable to work and provide for their families. Those who impart an attitude that suggests "They knew what they were getting into when they took the job" are coldly misguided.
Nobody could have predicted the devastating terrorist attack of 9-11 or the effect it would have on those who responded so bravely. Therefore, we must consider this situation with respect for the human dignity of the responders. We must ensure these brave individuals' are properly cared for. Affording the cost of caring for the health of 9-11 responders will be much less costly than the reputation America will receive by ignoring the health needs of these American heroes.
Pecquet, J. (2010, May 25). Dems say 9/11 first responders have earned guaranteed healthcare. Retrieved from http://thehill.com/...