What’s left to say on this day that hasn’t already been said? For those of us who lived through and watched the horrible attacks on our country unfold 5 years ago today, it is a day we’ll never forget. It is a day to honor and remember those who were killed. My heart goes out to the family and friends of those lost on 9/11/01.
I typically haven’t written much in my blog on this day since 2001, but what I wrote in 2003 still rings true for me today: “Today tell your friends and family that you love them. Life is precious. Enjoy it.”
Last night I watched on CBS the documentary called 9/11, which I also watched in 2002 when it was originally aired, about the events of September 11 unfolding on camera through the eyes of two French brothers who happened to be making a documentary about fire fighters. If you haven’t already seen it, do check it out. It’s very moving and unique footage from inside the Towers during the attacks. (Not to be confused with the controversial docudrama, The Path to 9/11, which also aired last night; I did watch the beginning of that one to see what it’s all about, and DVR’d it for later viewing.)
As Jen just said, “Terrorists come in all shapes and colors. Some terrorists come from upstate New York. So today we should also honor the people who keep us safe every day.” And thousands of servicemen and women from around the country are descending on Saratoga Springs this morning to do just that for NY State Trooper Joseph Longobardo, who was killed by Ralph “Bucky” Phillips (recently captured). The funeral is very near our house at St. Clement’s Church, so while walking the dogs this morning we saw not just police and military assembling, but the hearse carrying Longobardo’s coffin. It was a sobering moment and we walked past in silence and respect.
Thank you to Trooper Longobardo and everyone who risks his or her life every day to make the world safer for the rest of us.
As an EMT who helps to save lives every day in Los Angeles, my brother Peter is included among these brave individuals. Thank you, Pete, and your brothers and sisters in public service, for all you do.