It’s been 20 years since the terrorist attacks that took place in New York City on September 11th, 2001. On the anniversary of this unthinkable tragedy, we’re reminded of just how much everything has changed in the years since. We also set aside time to remember the heroes, victims, and their families whose lives were forever changed after that day.

The events of 9/11 are some of the darkest in our country’s history, but they also showed us our resiliency, courage, and commitment to come together and help get each other through an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. Together with stories of loss, we saw and heard about acts of great bravery as first responders rushed into the falling buildings to save others. It was a life-changing event that also reminded us of the bold spirit of America that we each have a responsibility to support and uphold.

For me, 9/11 was a turning point. And now, with an entire generation being born and growing up in the two decades since, we have to teach them about what this day has meant in our nation’s history and keep the stories and memory of all those lost alive in our hearts.