On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, 19 people carried out suicide attacks against targets within the United States. Two airplanes smashed into the twin towers of New York City’s World Trade Center and another plunged into the Pentagon. A fourth plane crashed in Pennsylvania without reaching its intended target. More than 3,000 people, including hundreds of police officers and firefighters, were killed during the assaults.

In honor of the bravery and courage with which men and women faced these strikes against our national security, the U.S. Congress passed bipartisan legislation in 2009 designating Sept. 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. By instituting a tradition of charitable service, the commemoration redirects memories of destruction toward the establishment of hope.

Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) takes pride in the part we play in providing instruction and credentialing for people who embrace these vital responsibilities. We offer associate degrees, certificate programs, and career studies certificates in the fields of administration of justice, emergency medical services and fire science technology. In addition, we offer CPR and first aid training classes.

If you yearn to answer the call to service, visit SVCC’s website or call SVCC at 888-220-7822. Admissions personnel can help you to learn about the training opportunities that will qualify you to join the elite cadre of first responders.

Dr. Al Roberts is president of Southside Virginia Community College. He can be reached via email at al.roberts@southside.edu.