Today we remember, and resolve to never forget, the sorrow we felt on September 11, 2001, and the lives that were taken from us that day. The heartbreak endures, and the work of defending our country continues. But 17 years later, we have much to be thankful for.
We are thankful to the heroes who ran into the smoke and ruins that day, and so many times since, risking their lives to save others. We are thankful to the families who have kept the memories of their lost loved ones alive. We are thankful to the men and women who have volunteered to serve our country and keep it safe and strong.
We should also be grateful that the evil men who attacked us on 9/11 did not achieve their ultimate goal. Americans came together after 9/11; our democracy passed the test. Today, we know that we must stay vigilant against our enemies, but also that we must remain better than our enemies, true to our values and to ourselves. May we always heed that lesson.
