20 Years. It’s been a long time since that day that shook us all. A day that changed every American forever, that changed American history.
In fact…it’s been 20 years.
20 years ago we were sucker-punched by a cowardly group of evil hell-bent on bringing America to its knees. They thought we could be torn down, broken, and forced into submission.
They were wrong.
20 years ago we sent our heroes into harm’s path, to stare evil in the eyes and be unafraid. Firefighters worked long hours, covered in dust and debris, saving who they could while knowing that day could be their last. The lifelong medical issues that they would eventually all receive didn’t cross their minds. They worked and worked for others.
Medical professionals from doctors to nurses and paramedics ran emergency rooms, operating rooms, and drove ambulances. They worked long hours, disregarding their own welfare in order to help others. They worked and worked for others.
Law enforcement at all levels went into high gear, becoming whatever we needed of them. They directed traffic, set up security, fought fires, held wounds, organized efforts, and rolled up their sleeves. Covered in dust they fought alongside their other fellow first responders, disregarding their own safety. They worked and worked for others.
The US Military rolled up their sleeves that day, put the dogs on the leash, and locked and loaded. Units from every branch were on high alert, while the Reservists and National Guardsmen jumped into action to help out locally. A proud and courageous country didn’t hide, but stood behind the bravery of the US Military, knowing the bravest men and women on the planet wouldn’t let this act go unanswered.
Just say when…
To the men and women who worked that day, I commend you.
To the thousands of people who joined the ranks of first responders, law enforcement, and military after that 11th day of September in 2001, I commend you and I’m proud to call you a peer.
To the families who lost that day, I love you. This day is seen for many as an anniversary of a horrible event, but I’m sure you all see it as a reminder of what you lost. I can never understand, as I haven’t lost someone to an act of evil such as that. I do, however, stand with you on this day.
I am thankful for your sacrifices. My freedom is still free because of what you have sacrificed. I do not take it lightly. I am saddened that it took the loss of your family members, health, or mental state in order to keep it free, but I’m eternally grateful.
Today isn’t easy for anyone, especially those who have felt loss. Today, we stand as Americans, together, despite what the media tells us. Despite what the White House says. Today is not a day for politics or politicians on TV (I’m sure they politicize it, so ignore it). Today is a day for reflection, to be thankful, and to understand.
Today, we Never Forget.