Each year, September 11th gets harder for me. I remember that day in 2001 like it was yesterday. As it unfolded I was too busy to grieve and too naive to realize how much the toll would eventually be. Later, as the years went by I continued to serve and after my retirement, the date began to mean more to me. Now, 11 years on, 9/11 holds a very deep meaning for me. I’m no longer serving, but one of my children is.
Many of you serve, or have served. And many have family members currently in the fight. Thank you all. As a fellow Veteran I salute you and as a citizen I give you my deepest thanks, and my unwavering commitment.
And finally, many of us have lost loved ones in this conflict. I grieve for your loss. Never forget the fallen. Remember Them, Honor Them. Not just today, but everyday.