REMEMBER

Imagine a beautiful summer day with a hint of fall in the air, blue skies, moderate temperatures, perhaps you're taking a walk in the park. This was the type of day it was in New York City at 8:45 on the morning of September 11, 2001. Little did we know that the lives of all Americans would change within the next minute.

At 8:46 American Airlines Flight 11 impacted the North Tower of the World Trade Center, spewing out 20,000 gallons of aviation fuel, which ignited a fire bomb reaching nearly 2,000°F. As devestated Americans watched the chaos of this attack, 16 minutes later United Airlines Flight 175 streamlined into the South Twin Tower, which collapsed 56 minutes after it had been hit, the North Tower lasted an additional 30 minutes before it collapsed as well. These events resulted in the deaths of 2,435 Workers, 343 Firemen and 23 Police Officers.

Meanwhile, citizens of Virginia were witnessing yet another crisis of this nature. At 9:38 a.m. American Airlines Flight 77 roared into the Western face of the Pentagon. Though with less effect than that of the attacks in New York, due to the buildings formidable construction, the results were horrifying, causing the deaths of 125 Employees and Servicemen.

Over the next several hours, Americans learned of a forth attack. United Airlines Flight 93 had crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. Popular belief holds that, the Passengers of this flight had been informed of the attacks in both New York and Virginia. When their flight was hijacked as well, the 33 Passengers and 7 Crewmembers attempted to regain control of the aircraft and lost their lives as they crashed into the ground.

The 2,966 Citizens who lost their lives in the attacks of 9-11 are now considered the first Heroes and Martyrs in what is known as the Global War On Terrorism. Not only will this day forever be instilled in our hearts, minds and souls, but the people who lost their lives due to the events as well. The events of September 11, 2001 are a constant reminder as to why we put on this uniform everyday, why we fight for our Country and why Americans will continue to Stand United.

Thank you to my Brothers and Sisters who have served before me, those who serve at my side, those who will serve in the future and all of our family and friends who stand behind us with love and support.

To The Fallen But Never Forgotten!!!

SGT Andrea Lynn Kraus

Untied States Army

• Stained Glass