ROBERT PIERCE
• Leader & Times
Thursday marked 24 years since the terrorist attacks on New York City, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. on Sept. 11, 2001.
Like many who were old enough at the time, Cottonwood Elementary School Principal Traci Mettlen remembers the events of the day well, and also like many others, the day holds a special significance for her for two reasons.
As a parent, the first reason, Mettlen said, is the profound impact the event has had on her children, helping them gain a deeper understanding of America’s history and the sacrifices made for freedom.
Secondly, Mettlen is the granddaughter of World War II veteran from the Second Marine Division who was awarded the Purple Heart.
“My grandfather, who passed away last year at the age of 102, spent his life sharing his story and reminding us of the sacrifices our veterans make for our country,” she said at Thursday’s Patriot Day ceremony at Cottonwood. “His memory continues to inspire me, and it is in his honor, and in honor of all veterans, I stand before you today.”
Mettlen said the memories of 9/11 and its aftermath still weigh heavy on the hearts and minds of Americans.
“In December 2001, Congress designated Sept. 11 as Patriot Day to honor the anniversary of the attacks, and in 2009, it was also declared a National Day of Service and Remembrance,” she said.
On the evening of Sept. 11, 2001, President George W. Bush addressed the nation, stating “Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shattered steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve.”
Now, 24 years later, Mettlen said the thousands of lives lost that day are remembered.
“May their legacy live on in our hearts and minds,” she said. “Let us take a moment of silence to honor our veterans, active-duty military, first responders and those who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. Let us also remember the lives lost in the Sept. 11 attacks.”
