Harper declares Sept. 11 a national day of service

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has declared Sept. 11 a national day of service, only two days before the tenth anniversary of the resounding attacks on the United States.

Canadians are being urged to recall and emulate the incredible acts of courage, sacrifice and kindness displayed on and in the aftermath of the 9-11 attacks

Harper will also be in New York over the weekend commemorating the events of 9-11, where he will meet privately with the families of Canadians killed in the terrorist attacks.

Meanwhile in New York, the threat of terror means even more police and security officials are on patrol in downtown New York, while security in Washington has also been tightened.

Tens of thousands of police will be on the streets, in the tunnels, and in the subways, where bag inspections have been stepped up.

Even garbage workers in the city are in alert and on the lookout.

“Anything you see that’s not normal, you’ve got to let them know,” said one worker.

One subway rider told 680News she was unphased by any threats.

“You have to do what you have to do, it doesn’t make any difference if you’re nervous or not,” the rider said.

Near Ground Zero a similar sentiment was repeated, as those who flock to the scene say nothing will keep them way.

“Definitely, it’s more safe than ever now, the NYPD is out here more than before,” one resident said.

“I feel much safer now than I had in years,” another resident said.

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