911 Memorial Competition

SOLUTION

One nation. A simple enough premise until you consider the context, America. A nation founded on principles of freedom, which ultimately created a unique diversity of cultural, political, ethnic and religious backgrounds never before seen in history. Yet, despite our many internal differences, this nation has a proud history of unifying people of different faiths, beliefs, interests and traditions to achieve incredible things and, in our darkest hours, joining together as one.

September 11, 2001 was one of those times when this unifying quality shined brightest. The toll of Devastation and human loss that resulted from the terrorist attacks was enormous. On Long Island, the pain was especially strong. In all, 384* Long Islanders were lost that day and nearly all of us were touched in some way…a father, a neighbor, a daughter, a co-worker, a friend…People who were so many things to us…inspirational, devoted, intelligent, driven, compassionate.

As Long Islanders and as Americans, our Response was, again, one of unity. This unity was visible everywhere, from the firefighters and emergency personnel who poured onto the scene, the local boy scouts collecting supplies for the volunteers, the iron workers and truckers removing debris, and the hundreds of people who, desperately searching for some small way to contribute, held signs up to the passing volunteers that simply read “Thank You”.

As a nation and a community, we continue to grieve, and face a new world in which we question our safety and security. Yet as we begin to heal the wounds of that day and face future threats, we Resolve to remain one nation.

*Source: Newsday.com