Soon - in September - we see a day - and It's a National Day of Service - 9/11

Why now?  In assembling THE BOOK, my personal memories, I reached out to many, and one that responded was a colleague that we had worked with at the GI Film Festival in Washington, DC many years back.  It was a great experience as the "backpackers" attended the film screenings and held interviews. Today, she is with the Gary Sinise Foundation. 

A reflection:  So many people today were not born on that day in September 11, 2001.  The aftermath changed our nation. 

I was in our editorial offices for the PC Teach It Magazine in the customer service area.  We had televisions up mounted on the wall and watched in honor as the first plane went into the tower.  Then the second.  We sent all home following.

I called my daughter.  She was in 100 miles away, and immediately she went home, and a  closest friend came to stay.  I packed a bag and drove to Columbia to be with my family.  Fear, we were headed into war and what was next?

The day continued and our nation was clearly under attack.  We stayed closed for days.  Our magazine distribution was held in the New Jersey post office.  We lost an edition.  We built a working relationship with AOL at School, and learned of the rebirth of patriotism that they found at least for a short while.  Estimated number of Americans lost on that day close to3,000 people.  And, to the First Responders in the areas close to the destruction of America, death continues with bouts of Cancer from the chemical exposure to the First Responders.

Following 2001, and our years of service via the A Backpack Journalist program our young people often participated in Days of Service, and in doing so, we packed bags of food at the Washington, DC armory was one example.  Plus we participated in the POINTS OF LIGHT meetings and events.  This non profit was started by George HW Bush, and continues today. 

This day has long been recognized by the United States Federal Government, so lest not we forget the mission:  To honor the spirit of sacrifice made that day and the sacrifices that continue to be made by community members, first responders, and members of the armed forces and their families, we unite in a national day of service happening in communities and public lands across the country. (9/11)

The Gary Sinise Foundation continues this effort, and we just spent time in Charleston with their military liaison,visiting with interested Community leaders as we shared the story of this foundation. 

Many may remember the film Forest Gump, and Lt. Dan?  Hope so. Check out Gary's story on line at  https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/founder/letter

One of our focuses was to began to bring forward support for our own community First Responders. We visited with the Non-profit sector, The City of Charleston Fire Department, The Citadel, The Charleston RiverDogs and the Mayor.   

Thinking out loud, I learned that a colleague from my days at Sanders Clyde, and the father of 7, has a son, who now gives donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation.  This dad asks of his children that they each choose a non profit to donate to.  More to come, as this young man has shown an interest in becoming a volunteer.

So that's my story and my week.  I closed my Friday by attending the Charleston RiverDogs game.  The weather had cooled, and the night air lovely.  Sitting among friends brought a pleasant close. 

9/11 is ahead.  What will you share with your family them?  Gary's letter is one to be shared thus the link here. 

Next? I expect to be traveling up the highway!