9/11 — Never Forget!

On this day, the 7th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, I encourage you to remember those who sadly lost their lives and the families who so unexpectedly lost loved ones that day.

I remember turning on the television that morning and watching a live feed from a helicopter. It showed the World Trade Center's North Tower smoking, and they were talking about what type of plane had struck the tower.

Then suddenly, at 9:03 a.m., United Airlines Flight 175 from Boston — the second hijacked airliner — flew in from the left of the TV screen and crashed into the South Tower.

I will never forget seeing, LIVE, Flight 175 strike the South Tower. For that brief moment, time stood completely still as I realized that our nation was under attack. I will never forget.

And I knew that somewhere in the world, very soon, that there would be hell to pay. Because 9/11 would turn into the most unifying event since the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. Because in spite of our political and religious beliefs, most Americans continue to share the same steely determination as the brave people on United Airlines Flight 93, who faced down the terrorists and took them on. Losing their lives, but preventing another, possibly more appalling disaster.

The United States and our true allies continue to be at war fighting terrorists who are in league with those responsible for the 9/11 attacks. Terrorists who have zero tolerance for infidels and differing lifestyles, those who simply don't believe in the same God as they do.

While you are saying a prayer for, or simply remembering, all the victims of this tragic day don't forget to add a little something for our military. The men and women who are putting their lives out there to do the best they can to prevent another 9/11 from happening ever again.

I am a patriot. I love my country, it is the greatest country on the planet, do not disgrace it. Do not burn a flag near me. It may be your First Amendment right to do it, but it is also mine to do everything I can to put out the flames.

I'll close this post with the immortal words of Todd Beamer, one of those who fought back on United Airlines Flight 93:

"Are you guys ready? Let's Roll."