Never Forget September 11, 2001

Never forget!

On September 11, 2001, four terrorist suicide attacks happened in the USA. You probably remember where you were on that day. We watched in horror as 2 planes flew into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. Another plane crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. While a fourth plane had crew and passengers fighting to prevent another possible crash on our White House or US Capitol. It crashed in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. We now know more than we did in those horrific moments about how orchestrated the attack plan was for this day.

Many lives were lost on that day, 2977 deaths. We remember them in many ways. A 9/11 National Memorial and Museum has been visited by many of us at the World Trade Center in New York City to remember the lives lost. The Flight 93 National Memorial (U.S.National Park Service) is in Pennsylvania. The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial is in Virginia.

Various organizations, such as the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, collect donations to alleviate financial burdens of fallen firefighters, military and emergency service personnel. These individuals had put their life on the line for us each day while in service. The foundation helps in various ways. It was first started to honor Stephen Siller, a local firefighter, who died on September 11, 2001, and continues now to provide stability and security for families in need. Recently some individuals received mortgage-free smart homes.

Never forget September 11, 2001. We have a country worth fighting for everyday and must honor all lives lost in service to our country. And provide stability and security for those individuals and families that suffered tragic loss.

Never forget September 11, 2001!

Truth in a Statue in Tucson

Near downtown Tucson, I noticed a statue of a fireman, so I stopped to learn why it was there by the Central Fire Station. It is a memorial and recognition of firefighter’s “ultimate sacrifice”. 

The past few months, numerous firefighters have been fighting the Bighorn Fire in our national forest and state park. No structures or people have been lost with almost 120,000 acres burned. Seven fire fighters had non-fatal injuries.

Truth be told, we are appreciative of every firefighter. Carrying their gear, climbing the mountainside, working on the fire line, tenting at night, and caring about the people and buildings in the area all in very hot, varying elevation and weather conditions … a profession many people do not run to train and be active in. I greatly appreciate those who do choose this work and relieved when I know all survived. Thank you!

Due to the charred areas not being able to absorb water and the upcoming monsoon season, the areas will remain closed till about November 1. Before you head out, check Pima County website to know if you can hike in certain areas. Be safe.