After the Sept. 11 attacks, one phrase could be seen everywhere. It was plastered on bumper stickers, printed on patriotic t-shirts, and could be found at memorials across the country. That phrase was a promise: we will never forget.
On Sunday it will have been 10 years since we made that promise, but can America really say we never forgot?
Yes, television specials that analyze every aspect of the event will be everywhere, terrorism is sure to be a hot topic on all news channels, and President Obama is bound to make a speech addressing the attacks, but what will everyone else do?
At FC there will not be an assembly in remembrance of the 366 servicemen who lost their lives saving others or the nearly 3,000 victims of the attacks. The only attention the day will receive will be a moment of silence before the announcements.
In a survey done by Rasmussen Reports in September 2009, 49 percent of Americans said their fellow statesmen had already forgotten about the attacks.
Obviously, the day has not been forgotten in the manner that someone forgets where they put their keys, but many would rather forget about that day than remember it or discuss it.
For many, Sept. 11 is a reminder of just how vulnerable our country really is, and is therefore more convenient to forget than to keep fresh in our minds.
To remember that day means to remember the chaos and the lack of control we had over the events taking place on our own doorstep.
Although the topic may be difficult for some to discuss, it is a necessity. It is the responsibility of all who experienced Sept. 11 first hand to share their stories and memories of that tragic day with the next generation.
Sept. 11 should not be pushed to the side. It is a crucial event in our nation’s history and culture, and its effects can be seen anywhere from the New York skyline to airport security.
Instead of labeling it as a painful memory, Sept. 11 should be remembered not just to honor those who died, but to honor what makes our country what it is today.
We all know what happened on Sept. 11, 2001, but what will you do on Sept. 11, 2011?