Remembering 9/11

Dear Colleagues,
 
We all know what it is to be aware of and empathize with a seminal, historical event before our time.  We realize how these events resonate and shape perspective. For instance December 7, 1941, lives in infamy in the American collective consciousness still, but the emotional impact may have lessened over time and with generations. 
 
For many members of the Regis University community, the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 were before their time.  As such, they are unable to share a “where were you when” story.  For others of us, we remember being transfixed to our televisions in fear, horror and disbelief.  
 
December 7, 1941, was followed by a horrific world war that touched every household and transformed society.  More than 407, 000 Americans perished and 671,000 more were wounded.  September 11, 2001, spawned two wars – one in Iraq and one in Afghanistan – with the latter officially ending last week.  In all, more than 7,000 U.S. military personnel have died in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001, including 13 who were killed by a suicide bomb attack on August 26, as they safeguarded Kabul Airport.    
 
On September 9, the Office of Military and Veterans Services will host Regis University’s first National Day of Service and Remembrance.  With this event, our community will be contributing to a national goal to inspire one another to perform 20 million good deeds in tribute. An example of such a deed, is to thank those members of your families and our Regis community who have served in the armed forces and to reassure them of our gratitude for their sacrifice.
 
Another example is to share your “where were you when” stories with our students as we remember September 11, 2001, twenty years on.  Let them know how frightening, heartbreaking and confusing everything seemed.  
 
Let us remember and share in order to never forget.  Let us honor all those who sacrificed their lives, limbs and well-being. 
 
Let us say a prayer for one another and for our country.  Let us inspire kindness and good deeds.  
 
God bless you and God bless America. 

Gratefully and with a warm heart,


Rev. John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J.
President