Cape Girardeau senator offers thoughts on 9-11

On September 11, 2001, two hijacked airplanes crashed into the towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. A third aircraft crashed into the Pentagon in Washington D.C. and a fourth crashed near Somerset, Pennsylvania after passengers fought hijackers for control of the plane. As Americans watched these horrific events unfold, we were all stunned by the seemingly senseless tragedy. Seven years later, the wounds inflicted by the events of that day still feel fresh as we continue to mourn for the lives lost.
The latest Capitol Connection by Sen. Jason Crowell, R-Cape Girardeau offers thoughts about Sept. 11. In two days, we will observe the seventh anniversary of the largest terrorist attack on American soil:

September 11th altered the course of American history more profoundly than any event since World War II. During the World Wars, and even in the Cold War, we had the advantage of knowing our enemy. We could point them out on a map. Today our enemies work together thousands of miles away from each other. There is no centralized political structure dictating their movements. They are positioned in all corners of the globe, working under the radar, and that is why our security forces must remain vigilant and active.
Americans have shown grit and courage in the sacrifices we have made in the name of national security. Whether through the patriotism of our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, the determination of domestic security personnel and first-responders, or the diligence of ordinary citizens, we know that it is now harder for terrorists to operate in the United States.

On December 18, 2001, the President signed a proclamation marking September 11th each year as Patriot Day, a day to reflect on the freedom and rights that are available to us in this great nation. This is thanks to the dedication of men and women willing to fight and sacrifice for this country. On September 11th, all flags at state facilities in Missouri will be flown at half-staff. A moment of silence is also observed to offer our appreciation to those who commit their lives to protecting our freedoms and honor the innocent lives that were lost during the 9/11 attacks.

I encourage you to join me this September 11th in taking a moment for reflection and prayer. This anniversary is a day for us to remember as a nation the pain and loss of the attacks, and it is also an occasion for us to thank God for the blessings in our lives.