9/11 Patch Project News

Where your unreturned emails go

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 19:54:00 +0000

Not to date myself, but I remember years ago when attempting to contact someone, they were either on the end of a phone line or not home. There were no voice messages--no cellphones--no email--just home phones. You kept calling to get ahold of someone or you gave up for another day. The common courtesy, was to answer the phone if you were home--or endure the endless ringing.

Today, so many of us can hide behind our email--our home message machines or our cellphone voicemail. The humanization of communication is gone! I can understand how many want to screen who calls or emails (eg. spam, salespeople, bill collectors, etc.) but it has become so out of control that we are losing touch with many in the world to avoid some we actually may want to speak with or answer their email.

For me personally, it has become one of the largest frustrations of my life. Running the 9/11 Patch Project the past 10 years has been tough getting through to many folks as to save the high costs of advertising, many emails were sent out to various Fire, EMS & Police organizations to make them aware of this worldwide effort to remember the heroes of 9/11 and raise funds. If the email is lucky to not fall into a "spam folder," it just lines up in someones email box alongside hundreds of others. Many will pick though that list of emails and as quickly as possible, eliminate the ones they are not interested in at first glance. Depending on the sender, most will not even click though the email if it is not from someone they know or are expecting an email from.

So where do your unreturned emails actually go? If they are not deleted outright or caught in the 'ol spam folder, they get buried in the email-abyss until someone has time to actually respond or go back into another round of deletion. Even when you actually respond back to someone who initially replied, the same thing could happen all over again. Sometimes I get as much as 200 emails a day. If I don't check for 2 days, there are now 400 emails to go though. This is even worse as the deletion process becomes more of a hap hazard mission to get to that one or two emails folks remember they need to return.

What about phone calls? Many of us use email so we don't have to track someone down on the phone. Even if we get a voicemail, depending on the amount of "um's" you leave in your recording, you may not get that call back.

So how do we get our emails replied to? According to Net Manners (link in previous paragraphs) We often screw things up right out of the gate by putting the wrong words in the subject line, including "red flag" words in our first couple of paragraphs and inserting pictures into the body of our emails. Even fancy fonts with colorful text and backgrounds may ruin your chances of getting your email read.

Bottom Line: At some point in time, if you want your email to find its target and earn a response, you may need to follow up with a phone call--the sooner the better. Modern communication does have it's advantages but it may take more work to see them--especially if you are sending out an email to someone you don't know. Spam can be a grey area to some but very black and white to others--especially those on the receiving end who didn't solicit an email from you to begin with.

9/11 WALL

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 04:07:00 +0000

Since the 9/11 Patch Project introduced the 9/11 WALL of Supporters, nearly a year ago, over 100 names of people and organizations have been added to the WALL. The low cost $9.11 donation secures your name on the WALL--$9.11 X 2 will get that name bolded.

This donation means a lot to the project as it not only lists the names of those who have put their support with the project, but it also helps to cover the costs associated with running this non profit effort, that is mostly funded by the sale of the iconic 9/11 Patches & Decals.

In addition to the 9/11 WALL, there is now an opportunity for companies and organizations to take it a step further by becoming a Sponsor. The $911 donation to become a Sponsor is a one time- life time donation where the donor will get their website banner and link on our Sponsor page. Sponsors will also get their names and links in newsletters, press releases and other promotional opportunities. From time to time, the 9/11 Patch Project will do interviews with the media or have a special story printed online or in printed materials such as news, magazines and other company newsletters. We understand the $911 donation may be a little steep for some organizations out there so the donation remains negotiable.

Thanks to those who have added their names to the 9/11 WALL and thanks to our recent LifeTime Sponsors; Hire Patriots-Connecticut, Fire In Motion, Beverly Hills Fireman's Association, Auto Medic of Seattle and ID Safety 24 on 7.

Thanks in advance for any level of support you or your organization is willing to provide!

"Please Don't Forget Us"

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:45:00 +0000

FDNY with the 9/11 Patch Project Bus Tour

You've all heard the story about how the 9/11 Patch Project began, many times...but I believe it is worth repeating. The four words, "Please Don't Forget Us," were spoken to a LAFD Firefighter from an FDNY Firefighter as they were parting their ways in late September of 2001. I heard these words from my Firefighter friend, shortly after he returned home from his Task Force deployment at Ground Zero. My response was creating the 9/11 Patch Project. Getting a 9/11 Tribute Patch on all uniforms has been the project's quest these past 10 years along with raising much needed funds for 9/11 related non-profits.

The project gets 90% of it's funding though the sale of the 9/11 Patches, Decals, Pins and other fund raising items. Occasionally, there is a donation made via the 9/11 WALL or on our Donation Page, which also helps to keep this project afloat.

There has not been enough funds coming into the project since last September, when we made nearly $20,000 in donations to the NYC Bravest Scholarship Fund, the Terry Farrell Fund and the Feal Good Foundation. Many orders and some donations allowed us to accomplish this.

Today, orders are trickling in and donations are rare. We need your help. If you feel the project should continue then please consider helping out in any of the following ways:

1. Order your 9/11 Patches & Decals HERE

2. Become a Sponsor for only $91.10 and get your website banner and link on our site HERE

3. Get your name or organization on the 9/11 WALL for only $9.11 HERE

4. Or make any size donation HERE

Thanks for what you are willing or able to do to insure we continue doing the great work of the 9/11 Patch Project for at least another 10 years!

We could use your help!

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 11:00:00 +0000

All four of the 9/11 Patches

You get high quality 100% embroidered 9/11 Patches designed to remember and honor the heroes of 9/11--we get much needed funds into the project.

This is how the project has worked the past 10 years and we are hoping that we can continue doing our great work another 10 years--but it is up to you.

Although the project was created to provide one of four 9/11 Tribute Patches for Fire, EMS, Police and U.S. Military uniforms or other clothing, the patches can be purchased by anyone in the public. Beyond the four patches, the project has created 10 decals that can also be purchased to support the heroes of 9/11 by placing them on your vehicles.

The decals range from 2.5" X 3.5" to 8.5" X 11" and are high quality fade resistant 3M products. The decal material is the same that was used to wrap the 9/11 Bus for the 10 Yr 9/11 Manhattan to Manhattan Tour and is also fire rated.

For those who already have some of the 9/11 Patches and Decals, we would be honored to have your name or your organizations name on the 9/11 WALL. This is a very inexpensive way to contribute while still helping the project raise Funds. Once again, here are the links to the different ways you can contribute to the 9/11 Patch Project:

1. Order your 9/11 Patches and Decals HERE

2. Get quantity discounts and Specials HERE

3. Get your name or organization on the 9/11 WALL HERE

4. Make any size Donation HERE

5. Become a Sponsor for minimal cost HERE

Thanks again to those who have supported the project all these years and thanks to those who decide to contribute in any of the above ways to insure we continue at least another 10 years!

What If?

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 17:56:00 +0000

Having posted hundreds of times on the NeverForget911 & 911PatchWebsite Facebook pages over the last two years, I have to ask myself...what if? With over 366,000 (combined) members here because they want to honor and remember the heroes of 9/11, what if everyone purchased one decal--or one patch--or secured a spot on the 9/11 WALL of Supporters? What would that do for the 9/11 Patch Project that I have run for over 10 years?

The answer is simple; donations in the thousands could be made to the three charities the project supports, more donations could be made to other 9/11 related charities, the project could afford to get the message out to more organizations, patches and decals can once again be donated to those organizations that can't afford to purchase them for their uniforms, every FDNY, NYPD & PAPD 1st Responder could get a patch for their uniform or jacket, the project could afford to purchase merchandise at incredible discounts, the project could afford to have booths at national Fire, EMS & Police events and finally, the 9/11 Patch Project would be able to continue doing great things for at least another 10 years.

Is it a tall order? Yes, but probably not for the reasons you would think. History has proven that getting everyone on the same page (no pun intended) is far more difficult than letting go of $2.50. I don't think the deal stopper would necessarily be a small but monumental purchase-- it's more about thousands of people out there that all have different thoughts on how they will remember and honor the heroes of 9/11.

Messages like this that market to targeted audiences (like you) statistically return less than a fraction of a percent--and sometimes up to 2 percent. I'm hoping to change those statistics and continue doing the work that I love to do. I personally fill all orders and if I am up to midnight every day getting one decal or patch to each you, than so be it--this is what I gladly signed up to do over 10 years ago.

$2.50 gets you one of the decals, $4.50 gets you one of the patches and $9.11 gets you on the 9/11 WALL of Supporters. $1 even helps!

Thanks to all of you in advance, for what you are willing to contribute!

Remembering our Fallen Law Enforcement of 9/11

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 19:38:00 +0000

9/11 Police Design to be Released

Even though the firefighter founded 9/11 Patch Project created a patch that honors fire-police-military in 2006, it is time to release a decal and patch that solely honors the police officers that lost their lives on 9/11.

Here is a first look at the design that still needs some touching up before being formally released in a week or so.

The NYPD's loss of 23 officers and the PAPD's loss of 37 officers is equally as tragic and significant as the loss of 343 FDNY Firefighters--at least that's the point that I, as a former firefighter/paramedic, wants to make to the world.

The FDNY is an incredible organization that bravely risks their lives on a day-to-day basis and I have a very deep eternal respect for them. But, I also share that same respect and admiration for the NYPD and PAPD who ran into the WTC's, alongside firefighters, to rescue victims on that horrible day in American history.

Even though the ""3-Heroes 9/11 Patch," that was released in 2006 was meant to honor all 1st Responders, it made sense to me to take the steps to go on and create the 9/11 EMT design and the 9/11 Police design.

I know exactly what our nation's law enforcement does as I worked alongside them for over 20 years. We ran emergency calls together--stayed up all night on incidents together--ate together--went to off duty events together--and most important, we risked it all together, daily!

I am interested in your thoughts on the design and whether some of our law enforcement agencies out there would like to see this design in the form of a uniform patch. Please let me know by emailing me here: BRETT HILL

Where you can put your government conspiracies on 9/11!

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:57:00 +0000

A recent exchange between myself and a 9/11 Conspirator, on one of my facebook pages, compelled me to break my silence on the 9/11 government conspiracy theories...so here it comes!

Like Lemmings following one lemming after another off the cliff, these ridiculous and severely unintelligent 9/11 conspirators, continue to spew their amazingly stupid theories on 9/11. It is not only offending but it is distracting, insensitive and flat out ignorant... and I for one, have really had it!

Imagine our government conspiring with Al Qaeda to train 19 terrorists to commandeer and fly large passenger jets full of innocent people into buildings full of more innocent people--buildings that were wired with explosives that would detonate and bring both towers down killing thousands--including 343 FDNY Firefighters, 23 NYPD officers, 37 Port Authority Officers and 11 EMT's and Paramedics?

What is the strategy of our government to co-conspire or plan the nation's most horrific event that would kill nearly 3000 American Citizens? Any intelligent person would stop right there--because there is no motive and nothing to gain. The past 10 years waterfall effect (as opposed to trickle down effect) can attest to that. What government would plan their own countries tragedy and financial ruin? So many examples of how stupid a theory it is, that there is not enough time in the day to site them all.

In September of 2010, I was part of the 9/11 ceremonies at the Santa Monica pier in Santa Monica, California. While sitting at a display honoring the victims of 9/11, a "9/11 Truther," (middle aged-well dressed male) came up to me and said, "You look intelligent...you know from an engineers perspective and training, it is impossible for those towers to collapse straight down like that without demolition." I told him I was not an engineer or a 9/11 Truther and there was absolutely nothing he could say that would make me believe our own government had something to do with the planning of the WTC tower collapses. He wouldn't let up. He was so convinced he was right that he would not accept anything logically said to dispute his theories. He was simply a lemming or a lover of conspiracies...either one has no place at a ceremony dedicated to honor the victims of 9/11. But of course, this country offers FREEDOM OF SPEECH...allowing total idiots to rant and rave about absolutely backwards ass conspiracies.

There are even groups out there that claim major broadcasting agencies were behind it as well--televising specially edited photos that showed planes flying into the WTC towers when they actually didn't. Too stupid to waste your energy responding too.

I've kept quite all these years while trying to promote healing and unity following the events of 9/11 that I have stayed away from such people and conversations. As needless as it is to hear, I want to male my position clear on 9/11. American hating terrorists planned an event designed to instill fear in Americans, kill thousands and disrupt our lives for years to come. Their lone acts of terrorism worked. Period.

I will not debate anyone that posts comments here or on any of my facebook pages about 9/11 Conspiracies--they will simply be deleted as fast as possible. It is not that I am close-minded, its just that the theories are designed by raving lunatics to distract from the real truth behind 9/11--thousands died and we are still feeling the effects 10 years later.

My job, even after 10 years, is to insure that the memories of our lost heroes are never lost. That is what the 9/11 Patch Project is about and that is what is important to me.

Is it Time to Move on?

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 05:51:00 +0000

Brett Hill- Founder

At the end of 2011 I take a moment to reflect over the past year and the previous 10 that I have submerged my life into the 9/11 Patch Project. There are no mixed emotions...the drive to get one of the four 9/11 Patches on all public safety and and U.S. military uniforms or other clothing, is a journey I began in December of 2001 and a journey that will only end when I do. Is it an obsession over 9/11? No, it is about keeping a promise to Never Forget.

It is time to move on from the tragic, graphic and horrible images of 9/11 but it is not time to forget. When I heard the words, "Please Don't Forget Us," spoken from an FDNY Firefighter to an LAFD Firefighter at Ground Zero, it did not mean to me that I would run the 9/11 Patch Project for 10 years and move on. To Never Forget, means to always remember...simple translation and an obvious one at that. But, it does not seem so obvious to many in this resilient nation who have literally decided to completely move on.

Rio Hondo Fire Academy- Santa Fe Springs, CA

Every new fire recruit at the Rio Hondo Fire Academy in Santa Fe Springs, California, receives two patches to be sewn on their academy uniforms--the Rio Hondo Patch and the 9/11 Patch. Even 10 years after the tragic event that took the lives of 343 firefighters, those that have decided to start their career at Rio Hondo, will do so fully understanding the sacrifice of so many that came before them. They will also understand fully, what they may face as a future firefighter. This is a message that Academy Chief Tracy Rickman sends to every fire recruit that comes through Rio Hondo Fire Academy. As one of the guest speakers at Rio Hondo's 2011 summer graduation, it was truly inspirational to look out at the graduating class and see them all proudly wearing their 9/11 Patches.

As many across the nation completely move on from 9/11, the 9/11 Patch Project ramps up by recently hiring 24 representatives to continue the 9/11 Patch drive on a closer and more personal level. Working from Southern California the past 10 years has been challenging. Sending out newsletters, posting on Facebook (and many other social networks), sending emails, posting press releases and making phone calls has just not been enough. The project has even sent out two mailers to every fire department in the nation the past 10 years and it has just not been enough. Having local representatives utilizing their professional connections and actually visiting organizations, is something that has become very necessary.

Although the 9/11 Patch Project appreciates the purchase of one or two patches & decals from supporters on Facebook's NeverForget911 page, the project is really about getting these patches on the shoulders of all public safety and U.S. military uniforms. It is about taking one of the most tragic events in American History and turning it into a positive moving forward. The world responded in a way we have never seen after the events of 9/11. People came together--borders were erased--politics were ignored--and cultural differences didn't matter. This simple idea of a 9/11 Patch on every uniform helps us all remember the heroes of 9/11 and remember how the world came together after the lives lost on 9/11 became the world's loss.

So pick up a patch or decal if you are wondering why you see them on the shoulders of firefighters, police officers and soldiers around the world. If you are an organization that honors and continues to remember the loss of your fellow heroes of 9/11, then pick up a 100 or so and get them on your uniforms. It's been 10 years but it's never too late to Never Forget.

*If you are a civilian or an organization that is not interested in participating in the 9/11 Patch Project, but still want to show your support, then why not show your support by adding your name or organization to the 9/11 WALL.

9/11 Patch Project Hiring Representatives

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 23:24:00 +0000

If you are a Firefighter, EMT, Police or other Public Safety professional, the 9/11 Patch Project could use your help. Back in Late November, we announced the new Rep program and had an overwhelming response. From those previous postings, we have already hired 24 Rep's, including Rep's in Canada, Belgium and Australia.

Today, we are still looking for Rep's in the Southern California area, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Montana, Texas (2), Colorado, Kansas, Michigan, Georgia, North Dakota and South Dakota. We are also looking for Rep's in countries like New Zealand, the UK, Germany, France, Ireland and Scotland. Additionally, Rep's are need in Australia's NSW, South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria territories. This is a performance based position where you would earn 15% of sales you generate. This is also an Independent Contractor position with no benefits or salary. This position is suitable as a part time job to start which may evolve into full salaried positions for the right individuals.

Moving forward the next 10 years, the goals of the 9/11 Patch Project now involve a more hands on approach in contacting organizations to participate. Having Rep's in each area that have contacts and previous sales experience, will help the project garner support and participation as well as raise funds.

Email Brett Hill, if you are interested. Thank You!

A Belgian Firefighter and a 9/11 Patch

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:50:00 +0000

I had just finished filling another 35 orders--it was about 9pm and I had a 48 hour shift to work in the morning. Just before leaving the office, I logged on and checked my email--up popped this picture of a Belgian Firefighter (Bob) wearing the 9/11 Patch on the front of his Class A uniform. I was awed by the image of a non-U.S. firefighter wearing the 9/11 Patch with the backdrop of our U.S. Flag, right on the front of his uniform! And, this project had crossed the borders of the U.S. and made it thousands of miles across the Atlantic. More important to me was the fact our loss of 343 brother firefighters became Bob's loss too.

This was back in March of 2002 when I was filling over 25 orders everyday for nearly 5 months. I would work my 48 shift at the Fire Department and spend my four days off filling orders--sometimes until 11pm. I looked forward to my email everyday because pictures like this were sent to me all the time.

Bob was the first picture sent to me of a non-U.S. firefighter wearing the 9/11 Patch. It is the most important picture as it was the first to demonstrate the world's response to the attacks on America, September 11, 2001. Bob was the only firefighter from Belgium to actually send his photo to me but many more Belgians would order the 9/11 Patches and Decals over the years.

Ironically, after looking for representatives to give the 9/11 Patch Project a more local presence in U.S. States and other countries, the first out-of-country representative to step up was a Belgian Police Officer named Christophe Knop. In Christophe's short time representing the 9/11 Patch Project in Belgium, he is already the front runner of our 23 representatives, bringing in 9 orders in December.

Shortly after Bob's photo was sent to me, I received photos from the UK, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Malta, Gemany and other countries with firefighters wearing one of the 9/11 Patches or displaying one of the 9/11 Decals. To date, there are over 25 countries with Firefighters, EMT's, Police Officers and U.S. deployed soldiers--all wearing one of the 9/11 Patches.

You see, it's not just about a patch anymore--it is about a fraternity of public safety and military personnel around the world that share common threads and all wear their hearts on their sleeves. Out of the tragedy of 9/11 came a unique act of solidarity that would go on to be unparallelled over the past 10 years. Are you wearing your 9/11 Patch or displaying your 9/11 decal?

Our 10 Year Anniversary~

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:39:00 +0000

Thanks to all of you who have supported the 9/11 Patch Project these past 10 years. With our 10 anniversary on December 15th, it is a great time for a thank-you message from the project founder, Brett Hill.

Many of our supporters come from the NeverForget911 page and a special thanks goes out to Rich Karns, the founder, for facilitating the partnership with the 9/11 Patch Project that began 18 months ago.

Today, the 9/11 Patch Project has 22 representatives out there in 20 different U.S. States and two Countries (Belgium & Canada). For the next 10 years, the goals are to make sure more Public Safety and U.S. Military organizations are aware of the project and have the opportunity to participate alongside over 8000 organizations in 25 countries.

To insure we continue helping the world remember the heroes of 9/11 and raising funds, we would ask that you consider one of the following levels of support:

1. It's the holidays! Why not purchase our gift bag or one of the other many 9/11 Tribute items as memorable gifts?

2. Is your name or your organizations' name on the 9/11 WALL of supporters? You can get on the wall for as little as $9.11

3. What's in your wallet? We have recently teamed up with Capital One to bring you three 9/11 Patch Project cards to choose from. Every time you make a purchase, you give a small percentage back to the 9/11 Patch Project, the NYC Bravest Scholarship Fund and the Feal Good Foundation.

Happy Holidays and thanks in advance for your years of support along with your future support to insure we stay open another 10 years!

9/11 WALL of Supporters

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 21:10:00 +0000

Since January of 2011, the 9/11 Patch Project has been adding the names of supporters to its 9/11 WALL. To date, there are many names of individuals, companies, fire departments, and other organizations that have stepped up to support the efforts of one of the longest running and farthest reaching 9/11 Projects in the world. Here is how you can contribute:

1. $9.11 X 1 = name, company or organization name
2. $9.11 X 2 = same but with name Bolded
3. $9.11 X 10= company or organization banner with website link on Sponsor Page.

The 9/11 Patch Project is a registered non-profit and these smaller donations insure that the project can continue the work it has been successfully doing around the world for 10 years.

Traffic to the 9/11 Patch Project website averages about 15,000 visits per month. According to Alexa, the website ranking organization, the website is ranked at 1.7 million, globally.

More about the 9/11 Patch Project and the fund raising patches and decals HERE

Bringing Hero Home

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 22:18:00 +0000

20/20 had a great segment this past Friday called, "Bringing Hero Home," a very touching story about a soldier killed in the line of duty and how they were able to bring a dog he cared for over in Iraq, back home. His father can be seen here wearing the blue t-shirt with one of the 9/11 Patch Project designs on it.

Seeing this story Friday night along with the 9/11 Patch Project design on the fathers t-shirt, reminded me how our U.S. Soldiers began participating in the 9/11 Patch Project back in 2002.

Many of our deployed troops have been wearing one of the 9/11 Patches since March of 2002 when a Navy Pilot and Navy SEAL introduced them while deployed in Afghanistan. The soldiers wanted to wear them alongside U.S. Fire and Police personnel as a sign of unity. LTJG Everett Alcorn can be seen wearing one of the 9/11 Patches in this photo, flying a mission somewhere over the waters of Afghanistan. Alcorn was assigned to the Helicopter Combat Support Group- HC6. He bought 200 patches and handed them out to his fellow pilots stationed on his Air Craft Carrier.

Shortly after Alcorn brought the 9/11 Patches to his fellow soldiers, a Navy SEAL from Team 1 Hotel Company, added the 9/11 Patch to his military issues. A San Gabriel Firefighter, who participated in the project back in 2002, was good friends with the SEAL and sent him the patches.

Over the years, the 9/11 Patches have become very popular gifts for soldiers deployed overseas. Like the dog in the story, soldiers are always looking for things to increase their morale. To order the patch that can be seen in the photo at the top, click HERE to get a huge discount. To order a t-shirt with the patch design on it, click HERE.

9/11 Patch Project Looking for Sales People

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 21:34:00 +0000

The 9/11 Patch Project is currently looking for 49 representatives to represent the 9/11 Patch Project in 49 States (Texas already claimed). These are commission or performance based positions as Independent Contractors. You would receive 15% of every sale you make in your State.

This is a great way to bring in extra income and suitable for someone who has dealt with public safety organizations either as a Firefighter, Police Officer or EMT; or has represented public safety companies that have sold to these agencies.

The first 10 years of the 9/11 Patch Project (established December of 2001) Brett Hill, the founder, has marketed and sold to many organizations across the U.S., alone. Today, having multiple representatives or one in every State, is the best way to go in order to continue the plan of garnering the support and participation of every public safety organization in the U.S. Since sales also include more than 25 other countries, the 9/11 Patch Project will also consider Independent Contractors for different countries out there.

Sales will include: the 9/11 Patches, Decals, Pins and the Hero Bear program.

Remember, the primary focus of the project is to get one of the 9/11 Tribute Patches on all uniforms (or other clothing), the 9/11 Decals on apparatus & vehicles and to continue raising funds for the NYC Bravest Scholarship Fund, the Terry Farrell Fund and the Feal Good Foundation.

So if you have the connections, the right attitude and want to represent the 9/11 Patch Project for your State, please email found Brett Hill to set up a phone interview.

9/11 Patch Project Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 18:22:00 +0000

The 9/11 Patch Project hopes that you decide to give the 9/11 Tribute Patches & Decals as gifts this holiday season. Recently, a gal ordered one of our 9/11 Patch & Decal Gift Packs for a fire station that responded on her motorcycle accident. She even asked that we include a note from her and we did. These special $25 gift packs have 10 items in them and actually come in a gift bag ready to send. You can get them HERE.

The 9/11 Patch Project relies on the sales of the patches and decals along with donations, to keep the project funded and to raise donations for the NYC Bravest Scholarship Fund, the Terry Farrell Fund and the Feal Good Foundation. We have been helping folks remember the heroes of 9/11 for nearly 10 years now and hope that you give us the opportunity to keep the project going another 10 years.

Thanks in advance for thinking of us when choosing memorable gifts for the holidays!

There's no pleasing Ms. Brody

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 02:27:00 +0000

WHERE IS MY ORDER??????????? This was the exact title of an email sent to me yesterday along with the exact amount of question marks. Upon opening it, the body of the email went on to say she had ordered 3 patches on September 26th, the money was out of her account, she sent three emails and she was tired of getting my stupid newsletters. She ended with "and I still have not got them - WHY NOT???????????"

Funny thing is I had deleted her first email after responding but then received this near duplicate even after I had asked for additional information and why her address in Ireland did not have a house number or street. This is almost the exact email she had originally sent me--there were no responses to the questions I had asked in two previous emails. Is this how most people inquire about their order? I would stick my neck out and say...no way! Having no record of any prior emails sent from my Gmail account, I told her that and expressed my concern about her address seeming incomplete.

Getting no where with her, things escalated where my response to Marion included phrases like, "Stop being rude and act like an adult" and "Calm down...I am trying to work with you." She analyzed the phrases and responded back to me, "I must say its no wonder nobody is buying from your site, you have no customer service skills and you seem to be running a one man shop answering your e-mails through your Blackberry!! Have a read back over your reply again - my god you are the rudest, most arrogant, patronising man I have ever come across. How dare you tell me to 'act like an adult' - is that what you are doing by speaking to a customer like that? You are a joke!!!"

Emails are a very imperfect means of communication and I have to admit, this is not the first time someone has misinterpreted my email. Three is no misinterpreting Marion's email--it was pretty clear. Phone calls are always the best methods for communicating between a buyer and a seller--but a phone call to Ireland was not in the budget for this $10.38 purchase for 3 decals (not patches).

So, after checking the paypal database for her order, I found it was actually made under someone other than herself. But it was filled and sent to Ireland within 24 hours. Why it didn't get there, no one really knows. Had I actually heard from her sooner, I would have bent over backwards to please her because that's how I feel about all customers. Occasionally an order does not find its mark and I will re send. In this case, I got frustrated and refunded her friends account because she never answered my requests. Before this email came today, I even sent another order to the same address (she insisted it was where she received mail the past 3 years) just to see if there was any way to make this lady happy.

So the last part of her latest email read, "I work in a company and had an order for 78 of your decals from my staff, but because of the way you treated me I won't be placing that order now - so its your loss for being so arrogant. I will be highlighting your web page to all my contacts and telling them not to order from you. Now you 'calm down' and try and be nice to people in the future."

Lessons learned: The customer is not always right. I do have to take responsibility for the statements I made out of frustration but I am human and like customers, my buttons can be pushed as well. I am a one man show but take pride in making the happiness of my customers the most important part of what I do. The reputation of the 9/11 Patch Project the past 10 years is impeccable--there should be hundreds of you out there willing to come forward to speak to that.

In the end, I have lost a customer but I am convinced that there is nothing more I can do. Emails are not the best means of communication and this case history is a testament to that. If Ms Brody wants to make her ambition bad mouthing the 9/11 Patch Project, there is nothing I can do. After serving over 15,000 customers these past 10 years, losing one is something I can get over. There is nothing that I said that called for the demeaning response I got from her. I have run this project the past 10 years to help folks remember the heroes of 9/11 and raise funds. This is what I do and the support I get from 99.9% of folks out there is what fuels me.

Brett Hill- Founder
9/11 Patch Project

Honoring American Heroes This Veterans Day

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 18:11:00 +0000

This 3.5" X 4.5" car decal was created by the 9/11 Patch Project nearly two years ago. As the founder of the project, I have also been a firefighter in Southern California for over 20 years and created the decal to combine support for our nations soldiers, firefighters and police officers.

I have seen many cars out there with a police support decal, a military support ribbon and the iconic fire helmet decals. Giving folks the opportunity to show support for all three American Heroes feels like the right thing to do. So the larger than average decal was created and done with one of the most fade resistant 3M decal products to insure it won't fade or peel up in the corners. In fact, after having the decal on a car window for a few years, you should be able to actually peel up a corner and remove it without razor blades or other scrapping tools.

So it is the perfect support decal for many reasons. The cost is only $3.50 (most decals this size retail for $5 or $6) and the net proceeds will benefit the 9/11 Patch Project Fund which donates to the NY Bravest Scholarship Fund, the Terry Farrell Fund and the Feal Good Foundation.

So consider a decal or two for your cars this Veterans Day and show your support for our Nations Veterans and Heroes. You can get the decals here: Home-of-the-Brave decal

What is the 9/11 Patch Project?

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 03:55:00 +0000

From a banner displayed at the end of the "Thank You America Tour," to the sleeves of thousands of firefighters across the nation. The 9-11 Patch Project was established December of 2001, to remember the heroes of 9/11 and raise funds for the families of the heroes lost on 9/11.

The idea was to unite firefighters around the world and honor the memory of our fallen brothers by adding the 9/11 Tribute Patches to all uniforms. Fliers were sent out to all fire departments across the nation in February of 2002 and in the following months, hundreds of departments across the nation began ordering the patches and putting them on their uniforms, job-shirts, jackets or turnouts. By the 1st year anniversary of 9/11 (09-11-02) $15,000 was raised selling $3 patches, and donated to the FDNY's Uniformed Fire Officers Association.

Then pictures were sent in of firefighters from other countries that purchased the patches and put them on their uniforms. Pictures were also sent in of U.S. Military personnel deployed overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan, also wearing the 9/11 Patches. The project had crossed our borders and circumvented the globe--everyone wanted to participate.

With U.S. Soldiers and even Police Officers participating, the project introduced a 2nd 9/11 Tribute Patch at the 5 year anniversary of 9/11, called the "Three Heroes Patch." Even though the project was initiated by a firefighter who was responding to the loss of 343 of his fellow firefighters, the project grew to include and remember all Public Safety and U.S. Military personnel.

With the goal of the project to get the 9/11 Tribute Patches on all uniforms, the 9-11 Patch Project teamed up with the 9-11 Rose Float and FireCareers.com to take the project on a cross country fundraising, fellowship and recruitment tour. The 9-11 Rose Float, featured in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade on 01/01/11, passed the NEVER FORGET torch to the 10 Yr 9/11 Manhattan to Manhattan Tour on 01/27/11 at Manhattan Beach Fire Department. The tour embarked on what would be a 16000 mile journey across the U.S. over 9 months, through 35 States, making 175 hosted stops. The funds raised on the tour were donated on 9/19/11.

Getting the 9/11 Tribute Patches on every public safety and U.S. Military uniform or other official/un offical clothing remains one of the goals of the project. All net proceeds will continue to be donated. Over the past 10 years, 2 mailers about the project have been sent to every FD in the nation. Some were ignored, others disregarded as junk mail and many, acted upon. Please introduce this project to your organization and join over 8000 organizations around the world in making these 9/11 Tribute Patches a permanent part of your uniform. Order the patches HERE

Keeping the 9/11 Patch Project Open

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 19:55:00 +0000

The 9/11 Patch Project was established December of 2001 to help keep the memory of our fallen 9/11 Heroes alive. The objectives of the project are to raise funds though the sale of the special 9/11 Patches, Decals and Pins as well as recruit Fire, EMS, Police and U.S. Military to place the patches on their uniforms or other clothing and/or apply the decals to their vehicles or apparatus.

To date, over 8000 organizations in 25 countries are represented by either wearing one of the patches or displaying one of the decals.

All the net proceeds from the sale of patches and decals have been donated to as many as 10 different non profit organizations. The latest three non profit's to benefit from the project are the NYC Bravest Scholarship Fund, Terry Farrell Fund and the Feal Good Foundation. Each of them recently received $6300 each.

Since the 10 year mark has passed us by, sales from the project have slowed to a crawl. Unless sales and interest in the project picks up, the project will be forced to close down on its' 10 year anniversary, December 15th, 2011. I am asking for everyone's help to keep this project going another 10 years. If you want to see the project remain open and the work of the 9/11 Patch Project continue, please contribute in any of the following ways:

1. 9/11 WALL: For only $9.11, you or your organization can be added to the 9/11 WALL of supporters and show your support publicly.

2. Make a larger donation from our DONATIONS page and also be added to the 9/11 WALL.

3. Order Patches & Decals from our ORDER page

4. Share the link to our homepage to as many of your friends and family as possible: http://9-11patchproject.org

I want to thank all of you who have continued to support the project all these years and hope that you can continue to support the project by making a donation, ordering from our store or passing on the link to our website. Thanks in advance for what you are willing to do to help keep the project open past December 15th, 2011

FireRescue1 Deals

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000

The 9/11 Patch Project recently teamed up with FireRescue1 to bring their new "Deals" program to Fire Organizations out there that could use a 25-75% discount on firefighting equipment and services.

The economy isn't getting any friendlier for both Career and Volunteer Fire Departments out there--both of which could use a break when ordering fire equipment or using critical services. The 9/11 Patch Project highly recommends DEALS for all fire related organizations out there. None of us can afford to be without these significant discounts. In FireRescue1's own words...

FireRescue1 Deals has teamed up with top businesses serving the fire service to give you 25-75% off on firefighting equipment, services and events that will help you serve your communities even more effectively.

The 9/11 Patch Project Lives On!

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000

FDNY Fire & Ice Hockey Team Wearing 9/11 Patch

The 10 Year mark of 9/11 has passed but the goal of helping the world remember the heroes of 9/11 lives on.

It was the words of an FDNY Firefighter, "Please Don't Forget Us," that began the project back in December of 2011 and nearly 10 years later, those words still resonate in the ears of project founder Brett Hill.

Why continue to wear the 9/11 Patches or display the 9/11 Decals, even after 10 years? Because NEVER FORGET means NEVER! The words are inscribed on each patch and meant to mean what they say. It's pointless to run this project for 10 years and then move on. We can move on from the horrible images of the day but let's not move on from the memory of what our heroes did that day.

U.S. NAVY SEAL

Some have diminished the value of a simple patch or decal but the truth is, these patches have found their way completely around the world. They are seen on the shoulders of firefighters in 21 different countries and on the shoulders of thousands, from all U.S. Military branches. These patches have brought about something positive as a result of something so tragic. They have crossed our borders, ignored politics and disregarded cultural differences. They unite people, help them honor the memory of our lost heroes and honor their professions.

Being able to donate the net proceeds from the sale of these patches and decals is another very important part of this project. The FDNY Bravest Scholarship Fund, the Terry Fund and the Feal Good Foundation are all important to the 9/11 Patch Project and will continue to receive funds. To see the latest donations and letters, follow this LINK

One of the main goals of the project is to continue getting the patches on uniforms across the U.S. as a permanent part of the uniform. We all have different patches that identify our unique organizations, the 9/11 Patches are the common threads that unite us all.

Lest we NEVER FORGET!

Honoring the 10 Yr Mark of 9/11 | What You Can Do

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:29:00 +0000

The 9/11 WALL was put up on the 9/11 Patch Project website over 2 months ago. This was done for those who asked how they could publicly support our fund raising efforts with the 10 Yr 9/11 Manhattan to Manhattan Tour and to be counted among the nation's supporters.

The 9/11 Bus could not visit every City on it's 9 month 30-State journey, so this also gives those who were not able to visit with the bus, the opportunity to make a smaller donation, and be seen [counted] as a supporter on the website. We have also decided to make the 9/11 WALL part of the 10 Yr 9/11 Manhattan to Manhattan Tour memory album that will be presented to the FDNY. So make your donation today HERE and we'll place you on the 9/11 WALL of supporters within 12 hours.

9/11 Bus & Melbourne (Australia) 2011WPFG athlete, wearing 9/11 Patch

We also want to let you know that the 10 Yr 9/11 Patches and Decals are in stock for an immediate turn-around. Most domestic orders placed within the next day or so will make it to you within 2-3 days. So those looking for the patches or car decals, you can still get them in time for 9/11/11. To get the fund raising patches and decals, please go HERE. Remember, the patches, decals, pins and flag, helps our fund raising efforts but also gives you something tangible to remember and honor the heroes of 9/11.

9/11 Bus Tour's Fund Raising Efforts Across America

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 19:35:00 +0000

Three weeks left on the 10 Yr 9/11 Manhattan to Manhattan Tour and we need your help! Fund raising across the U.S. in this economy and with all the recent mid west disasters, has been a tough one. We understand and that's why fund raising with the 9/11 Patch Project actually gives you back something tangible for your donation. Please look at how you can help us reach our donation goals by participating in one or more of the following:

Get your name on our supporters' 9/11 WALL for only $9.11
Get your name or organization's name in the reflective stripe that surrounds the 9/11 Bus for only $100.
Get a 12" enlarged logo of your organization on this bus for $911.11.
Purchase any of our fund raising 9/11 Patches, Decals, Pins or Flags (all net proceeds donated)
Forward this news letter on to everyone you possibly can!

All the net proceeds from the list above, will go to:

-FDNY BRAVEST SCHOLARSHIP FUND
-TERRY FARRELL FUND
-FEAL GOOD FOUNDATION

Thanks very much for anything you are willing to do on behalf of our fund raising efforts.

Brett Hill- Founder/ Former Firefighter-Paramedic
9/11 Patch Project

World Police Fire Games 2011 Offers 10 Yr 9/11 Anniversary Patch

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 16:53:00 +0000

Scott Safety, one of the two sponsors of the 2011 World Police Fire Games, will be offering the 9/11 Patch Project's 10 Year 3-Hero's 9/11 Patch, during the August 26th-September 5th games.

The 100% embroidered patch measures 2 1/2" X 3 5/8" and was designed by the 9/11 Patch Project to honor the fallen Police, Fire, EMS and U.S. Military as a result of September 11, 2001. The gold circled "10" on the patch represents the 10 Yr mark of this tragic event in history.

The matching car decal for this patch, along with other 10 Yr 9/11 Anniversary items, can also be purchased directly from the 9/11 Patch Project website. 100% of the net proceeds of the patches will be donated, both at the 2011WPFG by Scott Safety and from the 9/11 Patch Project online store sales.

The other 10 Yr 9/11 Patch features a single firefighter holding an axe--rising over the Twin Towers. This patch will be worn by the FDNY Fire & Ice Hockey Team during the games with the "3-Heroes" version worn by all 56 members of the Melbourne Australia Team.

It is important to note that the Melbourne Australia team donated $550 dollars to the 9/11 Patch Project Fund to have the 10 Yr 3-Heroes 9/11 design directly embroidered on each of the 56 members' team jerseys.

Nearly 5000 of the 10 Yr 3-Heroes 9/11 patches will be available for purchase at the 2011WPFG games.

Ann Arundel County Firefighters Place Seal on 9/11 Bus

noreply@blogger.com (9/11 Patch Project) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 05:48:00 +0000

The week of August 1st started out great for the 10 yr 9/11 Manhattan to Manhattan Bus Tour. It was one of the busiest in the 6 month history of the national tour with a stop July 31st with Washington D.C. Firefighters, August 1st with Alexandria Firefighters, August 2nd with Northrop Grumman and Baltimore Firefighters and then, Ann Arundel County, the morning of the 3rd. And they were ready for us!

The photo is of Lt. Brandon Hiller of the Ann Arundel County Firefighters Association affixing their seal to the 9/11 Bus. Even before the bus arrived, and with just days to plan, the firefighters had already decided they would be ready with a check to present for the donation to get their seal on the bus. They even had their County Executive, John Leopold on hand for a speech. The day with Ann Arundel County representatives was one of the best welcomes the 9/11 Bus has had.

With 3 weeks still away from the 10th Anniversary of 9/11, it is the 9/11 Patch Project's hope that the bus will be covered with the seals of other supporters, both on the tour route and anyone else that wants to have their name or seal carried into Manhattan, September 7th. We want as many people and organizations out there to be counted among the nation's supporters when we arrive to visit with the FDNY, our three charities and other New Yorkers.

Right now, there is a great opportunity for anyone to get their name in the reflective stripe that surrounds the bus for only $100. The lettering will be reflective gold and each letter, 2" tall. So even as the bus travels down the road at night, all the names will be visible.

Logo's or "Seals," can still go on the bus for $911.11. There is plenty of space next to recent Platinum Sponsors; Ann Arundel County (MD), Chicago (IL), Rockford(IL), Philadelphia(PA), Carteret (NJ) and Northrop Grumman. You can go HERE to get it done today.