September 11 was an incredibly heart-wrenching time for everyone throughout our community. I know that everyone joins with my family and me in extending our hopes, thoughts and prayers for the victims of this monstrously evil act on our country.

I'm writing on behalf of our community to say thank you to the volunteers of our local fire departments and emergency service personnel who responded to this disaster. I watched, along with hundreds of others, the scene on Hempstead Turnpike where countless numbers of fire trucks from as far away as Long Beach and East Meadow made their way towards the city to lend their help and support. Locally, I can't tell you how thankful I was to see our own Franklin Square Munson, West Hempstead, Malverne and Elmont Fire Departments answer the call with volunteers and equipment.

Our neighbors and friends - volunteers - will be on the front lines lending their help and expertise in an effort to help save lives and comfort our fellow man.

The scene of firefighters from right here at home was one of the most poignant signs of strength and unity we have as a community of neighborhoods. The spirit and courage of these young men and women are a symbol of our resolve that terror will not divide our nation.

Words can't even express how proud and thankful I know we all are to the New York City firefighters, police and volunteers doing the truly incredible job they have done under the most stressful circumstances. The pictures on television were an incredible story of heroism that even now continues.

I am personally encouraging all residents to donate blood, contributions and lend moral support to the volunteers and families who are being touched personally by this tragedy.

Lastly, I hope all throughout our community will join with me in praying for the families, emergency personnel and Mayor Giuliani for continued strength and resolve as they help us as a nation to get through this catastrophic act of terrorism.

Thomas W. Alfano

Assemblyman