Five years later, it is still very hard to think back to that terrible day in 2001 when we lost over 3,000 Americans to a crazy terrorist act. As a retired FDNY firefighter who lost 343 “brothers” that day, I am still horrified by the tragedy.

Having retired only months before, I was fortunate to not have been a part of the actual happening ─ the most extensive alert in the history of FDNY.  But, all of us were really a part of it because this was an act against America.

For many of us, it will always be hard to recall that tragic day without reliving the horror.  But, please don’t ever forget… the firefighters responding en masse,  going into the building to save lives… police officers searching and trying to save lives… the EMS caring for the wounded and saving lives... construction workers digging for lives… ordinary people helping others in need.

Don’t ever forget the airline pilots… the passengers on each aircraft who heroically struggled with their enemies… the military and civilians at the pentagon who didn’t see it coming… ordinary people in a field in Pennsylvania.

Don’t ever forget all the children left without fathers and mothers… wives without husbands… husbands without wives… fathers without sons… daughters… mothers without the same… people without people… please don’t ever forget.

Over the weekend, I happened to see the movie “WTC” ─ a wonderful movie because it depicts all the heroic efforts of the rescue workers searching for survivors.  It gave tribute to the families of those who survived and provided emotional insight into their feelings.  Even though this was a good movie, I am sorry I viewed it because it struck too many raw nerves about why such an event could occur here in the USA .

Remember our soldiers fighting this war on terror here and abroad. 

Remember to love one another and give hugs often.

Remember to be proud and patriotic.

Remember all gave some… some gave all… always remember!

GOD BLESS THE USA.