Nodler: A Reminder of Unity this September 11

This Saturday marks the anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001. This event in American history will always be engrained in the memory of all Americans. In a single day, the course of our history in the United States was forever changed. This September 11, as we all think back on the tragedy of that day nine years ago, we must focus on the challenges that we still face, and how we can overcome them as a country.

When jetliners crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the countryside of Pennsylvania, forever altering the lives of millions of Americans, it was the first assault on American territory since the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Americans were stunned, upset, but most importantly, unified. Businesses in major cities and rural towns proudly displayed Old Glory in their windows and messages of support were present on clothing, bumper stickers, and signs throughout the U.S. In the aftermath of the attack, American flags dotted the landscape of neighborhoods throughout the country as a sign of grief for those who were killed, support for those who were fighting our enemies abroad, and patriotism and pride in our great nation.

Nine years later, the tragedy of the 9/11 attacks remains on our minds, but as we revisit this event, we also can’t help but look at the present. As our brave service men and women continue to fight for freedom abroad and as we work at home to secure our borders, we must remember the unity we felt as a country and the support our heroes still need and deserve.

I have joined many of you in questioning the recent actions of our federal government and working to bring an end to overspending and over-regulation. Even as these concerns increase, we must remember that we are one nation under God, and that it is the dedicated work and efforts of American citizens that made our country great. Through tragedy, hardship, and challenge, we find unity and purpose.