9-11: We will never forget

As we reflect on the horrific images and memories of the terrorist attacks 10 years ago today, I hope we each take a moment to say a prayer for those who lost loved ones in the cowardly attacks on our nation, and to say thank you – either physically or silently – to those who protect us and our country, and to the families of those who have lost their lives doing so. We should also remember and give thanks to all the heroes of that day, and in the days and weeks that followed: Those who searched for victims; those who trained and brought in search and rescue/recovery animals; those who donated time and equipment used in those efforts; and to those who helped design and rebuild Ground Zero into the striking memorial that it is today. We should also thank our nation’s leaders for doing what they believed was necessary to protect our beautiful country and for making difficult decisions that most of us couldn’t possibly fathom making. September 11, 2001: A day that lives, families and our nation were forever changed, but not beaten; not ever. God bless America, her people, our resources, and all that we as a strong, persevering nation can do and have to offer.