Backed by a new generation of service members who stood ready to answer the call of duty, America’s sense of spirit and patriotism was reborn.

For 12 years now, the men and women who so gallantly put their lives on hold to answer that call have helped to better secure us from such vicious and cowardly attacks…  They’ve liberated a country from the clenches of tyranny…  They’ve interrupted a stronghold for breeding future extremist… Empowered governments and trained militaries so that they may sufficiently govern and defend themselves against evil and intolerant bigots.

We have and will continue to face challenges from those who disagree with our way of life, not just here at home, but all over the world.  But, we vowed that from September 11, 2001 forward, we would act to ensure that forces of ignorance and evil never prevail, that we will unite against anyone who chooses to threaten our freedom and we will stand unified and defiantly proud in the face of our enemies.

Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “History does not long entrust the care of Freedom to the weak or the timid,” – in retrospect, we can now take solace in knowing that the lives lost September 11, 2001 ultimately served to strengthen our resolve, sense of purpose and vision for the future.

It is our duty to continue to hold true to the heroic efforts and sacrifices that took place on that tragic day, and to work diligently for the advancement of freedom worldwide.

Fellow Patriots… let us vow to recommit ourselves to our families, our communities and to our country.  For generations, America has served as a beacon of peace and light to the world. We need to continue to be that source… That is the best way to honor the memory and the deeds of Sept. 11.

God bless you, God bless America and God bless our troops.

– H. Scott Camp, Commander, Polk County Memorial VFW Post #9116 – Columbus