Why We Fight

Today we face another anniversary, another reminder of that horrific day in 2001, that started off to be nothing more than a beautiful morning. There are so many reasons to mourn the anniversary of September 11, 2001, but there are so many reasons to appreciate the great country in which we live. Due to the footage that has been released since 2001, we have witnessed and remembered many heroic acts. We have heard and seen the actions of firefighters and police going above and beyond to save the people fleeing the World Trade Centers. At the Pentagon, service members assigned a desk job were suddenly thrust into the role of rescuer. The bravery of the citizens on Flight 93 showed that they were ready to act as warriors. On that day, we witnessed people from all walks of life risking their lives to protect those around them. We live in a country that, regardless of politics or religion, still collectively strives to help those in need. Whether it was their job or not, each person that sprung to action knew it was the right thing to do. They embodied the American Spirit, and it was strong that day. The heroes of the day are many, and in most cases nameless. Many made it out, but too many didn't. We honor all the citizens, firefighters, police, EMTs and service members that rushed to action long before orders were handed down for them to respond. For every one of you, your courage will never be forgotten.
Since September 11, 2001, the burden upon our service members has increased. Lengthy and frequent deployments have have become the norm. Many fronts have been opened in the War on Terrorism. The new 18 year-old recruits into the armed services were just 6 years old when the World Trade Centers fell. We are facing a much different world than the one we knew on September 10, 2001. Yet we can rely on our brothers-in-arms, separated by time but not purpose, to carry on the mission of protecting the citizens of the United States of America. The threat may change, but why we fight remains the same.