Remembering those who died on 9/11. | 
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On September 11, 2001, terrorist activities killed nearly 3,000 people and wounded a nation. Nearly 400 of the dead were first responders trying to rescue those in need. Ceremonies will honor their memories in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania, where they lost their lives.
In addition, we must honor the men and women who died serving our country in response to such acts. According to the Military Times Project Valor, over 6,800 service members have died in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn.
There will be tributes given, names read, photos displayed, wreaths presented, memories relived, and tears shared. There will also be moments of silence. What do you think of during the silence? Who do you remember?
If you are too young to remember the events of that day, "eight personal stories of transformation" are available online at the 9/11 Tribute Center website (a project of the September 11th Families' Association).
As we remember the losses, we are faced with new terrorist threats. Perhaps we must also observe a moment of silence to consider how to best confront new threats of terrorism.
- How do we protect our country and our people without losing our identity as a free nation?
- How do we fight violence without becoming unrestrained aggressors?
- How do we root out enemies without filling with hatred?
Wishing you peace.
Articles on memorials:
Alcindor, Yamiche and John Bacon, "Lower Manhattan, the world mark 9/11 anniversary," USAToday.com, Sept. 11, 2014.
Berman, Mark, "Remembrances in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania on anniversary of 9/11 attacks," WashingtonPost.com, Sept. 11, 2014.
Blindner, rachelle and Jonathan Lemire (AP), "Nation remembers the fallen on anniversary of Sept. 11 Attack," LawOfficer.com, Sept. 11, 2014.
DEA4912 on YouTube, "Homeward Angels: A 9/11 Tribute," (Before & After, Responding & Collapse, Memorial), Mar. 25, 2013.
Voices of September 11th, VOICES 9/11 Memorial, accessed Sept. 11, 2014.
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