'Our Flag Was Still There'

Written By: Michelle M. Boisvert
From: Nashville, TN.

One warm autumn morning, our United States was attacked, stricken to its very soul. That unforgettable morning, innocent Americans lost their lives because they went to work. That September morning, enemies of freedom dared to test the strength of this great nation. Now, our 'Star-Spangled Banner' still waves. It flies higher and brighter than ever before. Its red stripes are more crimson now, stained with the blood of nearly 3,000 Americans. Its white stripes glow with a warmth that comforts those who loved the nearly 3,000 Americans we lost.
On September 11, 2001, all victims of terrorism became part of America's family. We all watched in horror and disbelief as the hatred of one small group of people assaulted our nation in a way few ever imagined. Each day, something reminds us of that day: a song, a news story, a stamp.
With the horrific memories, though, come the memories of the heroes. The Brotherhood of Firefighters lost so many in their awesome and selfless efforts. Beside them worked the police officers and EMT's, risking all. The men and women of our armed forces served and continue to do so to protect the freedoms we had come to take for granted. And there were ordinary people who woke that morning, knowing that they were scheduled to take a flight but not knowing the extraordinary heroes they would become, losing their lives in a field in Pennsylvania so that many more might live.
How can we ever, EVER thank all those people? There aren't enough words or money or recognition in the world to repay them for their devotion, courage and resolve. How?
We can and must remember every day. We must be devoted to our country and vow to protect its freedom. We must have the courage to keep the memories of even the most painful images. We must show the enemies of freedom that we are and will remain indivisible. We must, as one nation under God, resolve to NEVER let it happen again.
We can and will do all of this because as 'our flag is still there', so is all that it represents: unity, liberty, and justice.

September 11, 2003 Remembrance