This month, as difficult as it is to believe, marks the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Flight 93. If you are like me, you can still close your eyes and relive in vivid detail exactly where you were and what you were doing at the time when, in moments, the life of our country changed. That day was our generation?s Pearl Harbor.
With this anniversary, we have the first decade of perspective on the events of September 11, 2001. We should take this time to reflect. It still hurts, it still profoundly affects our country in a multitude of ways, and we still struggle to make sense of something so horrific and monumental that it is still unthinkable that it really happened.
And as we remember, we need to take time to reflect on the true American heroes of that day. As a company, Greater Media is committed to remembering the victims and first responders of 9/11. We will also pay tribute to the men and women who continue to put their lives on the line every day so that we may enjoy the freedoms that so many across the world are still fighting to achieve.
We will share these memories with all of our listeners in all of our cities, on the air and online, in an effort to focus attention on these selfless individuals. They embody the true spirit of this country and the best definition of American exceptionalism.
As the new World Trade Center rises beside Ground Zero, we now know that numerous first responders who freely gave their time and energy to the search and cleanup effort will live the rest of their days with chronic illnesses. We know of so many loved ones whose grief is still overwhelming. We know that everyday men and women from every state in our country bear the scars and wounds of 9/11, some visible, many hidden from view. The least we can do is remember, honor them and continue to support those that bravely walk into harm?s way on a daily basis.
With their determination, resolve and dignity, we are lifted and led by a spirit that will persevere. We are a country of individuals who accept and welcome personal risk and responsibility. We are at our very best when we respond to the needs of our fellow citizens and our country with courage, compassion and generosity. We know that we must balance our personal freedom with our responsibility for the common good. Rarely will any of us be called upon to summon the inner strength of those who answered the call on 9/11 and in its aftermath. But if we remember and embrace their spirit of duty and self-sacrifice, then the potential for heroism lives in each of us.
Peter Smyth is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Greater Media
Add a Comment Send This Story To A Friend
