From the NFRW Armed Services Committee
On September 11, 2023, our nation will observe the 22nd anniversary of the horrendous terrorist attack that changed the United States of America, as well as other nations.
This was not just an attack on our military, it was one against our citizens and our financial intuitions. We lost close to 3,000 individuals that fateful day -- most at the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center when Flights 175 & 11 hit -- both military and government civilians as well as passengers on Flight 77 that crashed into the Pentagon, and the passengers on Flight 93 when they voted and made the decision to try to take control or cause the hijackers to crash in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, rather than somewhere in Washington, DC.
In addition, we lost many first responders who paid the ultimate sacrifice giving their lives trying to save others. We must also remember the many who died over these 22 years as a result of the after-effects from the destruction of the Twin Towers.
Immediately, security rules for air travel became stricter in the USA and around the world. Access to government facilities and the make-up of our driver licenses also changed. People began to become more aware of their surroundings.
Many of our citizens felt a sense of patriotism and flocked to recruiting stations to join the military. Within months, our armed services along with our allies willingly went to war to avenge these attacks. We showed that we would not buckle due to terrorism. For the first time ever NATO evoked Article 5 (an attack on one is an attack on all), bringing NATO forces to help defend the United States. We took the fight against terrorists overseas so Americans did not have to suffer another such incident at home. Over the past 22 years, many of our service members and first responders gave the ultimate sacrifice or were severely wounded supporting our right to be free.
Please take time on 9-11 to reflect on those we lost on that day in 2001, those who were wounded and those who died in support of our great nation over the next 20 years in the wars against terrorism. Consider donating to Tunnels2Towers or the Wounded Warrior Project. They support our armed service members, first responders, and their families, by taking care of those who don’t came home or come home injured.
Ways to observe the National Day of Service and Remembrance:
- Americans are called on to observe Patriot Day each September 11 with a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 AM Eastern Daylight Time.
- Observe the day with ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services.
- Flags should be displayed at half-staff, from sunrise to sundown, in honor of the individuals who lost their lives.
- Patriot Day has been added to the Flag Holidays listed in section 174 of the U.S. Flag Code.
- State and local governments and the people of the United States are asked to observe Patriot Day with appropriate programs and activities.
CAPTION: Flags of Remembrance by SGT Jeff Dre