On Saturday, we as a community will all gather to remember the lives of those lost; on September 11th, 2001 and in the years that continue to follow. We will stand united, offer our memories, honor loved ones, share stories of bravery, and random acts of kindness that gave us all hope during this Nation's darkest of hours. It is a day that we must not ever take for granted. It is a day we owe to thousands of Americans to never forget.
On September 11th, 2001, the world stood still as the deadliest terrorist attacks on American soil in our history unfolded before our eyes. The most elite of first responders and law enforcement stood side by side with ordinary citizens and together ran toward unspeakable horror and certain death to save the lives of strangers. Travelers on board Flight 93 chose to give their last moments on earth to defeating terror, saving countless lives on the ground. On September 11th, 2001, the very worst of humanity was met by the very best of humanity.
Twenty years later, current events abroad and at home have opened up old wounds for families, veterans, and first responders who have battled illness and post traumatic stress. Our resolve must endure.
Never forget is more than just a saying or a hashtag we use to remember this day. It is a solemn promise to the 2,977 who were killed on September 11th, 2001, thousands of 9-11 responders who have died or have battled illness, the 2,455 US Soldiers and their families who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the War on Terror and the 20,722 brave heroes who were wounded in action. Never forget is a sacred creed as Americans, which we; at the very least, owe to the survivors and the fallen alike. Never forget is more than just remembering… it is reflected in your actions every day you are blessed to live in a free society.
We must rise up and ignite the human capacity for goodness which exists inside of each of us. Help others, give back to the community, or pay it forward in some way. Teach our younger generations about the ordinary people who arose as extraordinary heroes that day. Remember our loved ones by living each day with grace, decency and kindness. Honor our fallen 9-11 responders, soldiers, and veterans by cherishing our way of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Remember this day, the sacrifices made, and how we stood united each and every day forward.
Choose civility and goodwill, ignore that online troll, smile at a stranger, forgive and let go of old wounds. Choose grace today, tomorrow and each day forward. That is how we renew our resolve and the enduring spirit that lives on in this great Nation. That is how we remember the lives taken from us on September 11th, 2001 and in the aftermath. Stand united once again. I will humbly stand with you.