Dianne Edmondson, Precinct 4 Commissioner
Do you remember where you were at 8:46 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center?
Minutes later, at 9:03 a.m., United Airlines Flight 175 struck the South Tower. At 9:37 a.m., American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon. Then, at 10:03 a.m., United Airlines Flight 93 crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after courageous passengers and crew fought back against the hijackers.
I remember exactly where I was that morning. I was at home, watching television and getting ready for work, when my son-in-law called. Soon, I was on the phone with State Rep. Richard Hayes, then chairman of the Denton County Republican Party, and others as we tried to comprehend the events unfolding before us.
The gravity of the attack became even clearer as the South Tower collapsed at 9:59 a.m., followed by the North Tower at 10:28 a.m. Not since Pearl Harbor had our nation experienced an attack of such magnitude.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, now observed as Patriot Day. For millions of younger Americans, 9/11 is history rather than a personal memory. That makes it even more important for those of us who remember to tell the story.
The attacks also inspired extraordinary service. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, created in honor of fallen New York City firefighter Stephen Siller, continues helping veterans, first responders and their families. The Wounded Warrior Project, founded in 2003, has provided programs and services to hundreds of thousands of wounded veterans, family members and caregivers.
In the years since, I have become acquainted with State Sen. Brian Birdwell, who was inside the Pentagon when Flight 77 struck. He survived despite suffering severe burns over much of his body. His story is one of countless examples of courage and perseverance that emerged from that terrible day.
As we commemorate Patriot Day, I encourage you to attend a local remembrance ceremony, fly the American flag, thank a first responder or veteran, and take time to teach younger generations what September 11 meant to our country.
We remember the 2,977 lives lost that day and the many others whose lives were forever changed. We remember the firefighters, police officers, military personnel, emergency workers and ordinary Americans who responded with extraordinary courage.
We should also remember what happened afterward: Americans came together. Flags flew from homes and businesses. Neighbors helped neighbors. Differences seemed smaller, and our shared identity as Americans became stronger.
Twenty-five years later, we must continue telling those stories of sacrifice, courage, compassion and unity.
We must never forget.
Contact Commissioner Dianne Edmondson at Dianne.Edmondson@dentoncounty.gov or 972-434-3960. Her office is located in the Southwest Courthouse, 6200 Canyon Falls Drive, Suite 900, Flower Mound.