As the tenth anniversary of the most horrific attack against American citizens draws closer, conversations have already began as millions of Americans reminisce about where they were and what they were doing when they heard the news “America is under attack.”  Much like the assassinations of JFK and MLK or the attempt on Reagan, these events are imposed in the minds of many like snap shots in a photo album.   On September 11, 2001, I was only a few weeks into my first year as a teacher at a middle school in South Louisiana.  I can remember my principal, Mr. Tommy Salter, making the announcement about a plane crashing into one of the twin towers – which was soon followed by a second plane – and we were instructed to tune our classroom TV’s to the local New Orleans news channel.   We soon learned that the crashes were deliberate; that this was only the beginning of a master plan to attack America; that our nation would soon be shut down for several days.   I can remember the panic that my students felt, and their uneasiness was only a glimpse of our country as a whole.   Strangely, I can remember that our cafeteria served meat pies with red beans and rice that day.

What I remember most about that time is the amazing feeling of ‘unity’ and respect that exploded from the core of American hearts and souls.  There was no black or white; there was no democrat or republican; there was no rich or poor.  There were only Americans hoisting the stars and stripes as far as the eye could see.   Our military and our public servants were honored in a way that would humble the most immodest aristocrat. 

Today, the face of law enforcement has changed to reflect a new threat of danger created by terrorism.  On 09.10.11, we want you to join us in recognition of the 10^th anniversary of “unity and honor” by showing our police officers that we are still behind them as they suit up to protect our communities from enemies both foreign and domestic.   In honor of 9.10.11, we hope that you will make a small donation in the amount of $9, $10, or $11 to our fallen officer fund.   Our goal is to raise $50,000 to help the families of fallen officers.  Click here to donate.  Get something extra!  Add $5 to your donation to get a Commemorative Coin to show your support.

.

Additionally, we would like to invite you to join the Police Benevolent Foundation community on Facebook, and tell us where you were on 09/11/01.  Share your thoughts or just express your appreciation for the public servants who serve our country and the thousands of people who died – including 72 police officers.