Trump signs 9/11 compensation fund bill alongside first responders

President Trump on Monday signed legislation extending the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund in a Rose Garden ceremony where he was joined by first responders and families of those who died from illnesses caused by their proximity to the attacks.

Trump, a New York native, praised the courage of those who ran into the Twin Towers and sought to portray himself as intimately familiar with their efforts.

"The whole world witnessed the might and resilience of our nation in the extraordinary men and women of the New York Fire Department and the New York Police Department," Trump said. "Selfless patriots of unmatched character and devotion. I grew up with them, so I can tell you it’s absolutely true."

"It’s always nice to really know your subject," he added. "I know that subject. These are great people."

Trump later explained that the bill benefits families of those who died responding to the attacks, as well as the scores of first responders who were exposed to toxic air and debris while working near Ground Zero.