Honoring the Bravery: Reflections on the Heroism of Flight 93

## A Reflection on Bravery and Heroism

*by *

**September 11, 2023**

Shanksville, Pennsylvania – The Flight 93 National Memorial held its annual remembrance ceremony on Monday, September 11th, to honor the lives of the passengers and flight crew who tragically lost their lives during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the fateful day that forever changed the world.

### The Story of Flight 93

On that ill-fated morning, United Airlines Flight 93, bound from New Jersey to San Francisco, became a symbol of extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and heroism. The passengers and crew onboard found themselves facing a choice no one should ever have to make: to passively accept their fate or to fight back against the hijackers who intended to use the plane as a weapon of destruction.

### The Ultimate Sacrifice

After learning about the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, the brave men and women on Flight 93 realized that their plane had also been hijacked, and their lives were in imminent danger. They made courageous phone calls to their loved ones, saying their final goodbyes and expressing their love. With unwavering determination, they planned and executed a counterattack, attempting to regain control of the aircraft.

### A Crash that Saved Lives

The passengers’ resolute action forced the terrorists to crash the plane in an open field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, thereby preventing it from reaching its intended target, believed to be the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C. Their selfless sacrifice saved countless lives and undoubtedly changed the course of history.

### Honoring the Heroes

Each year, the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville pays tribute to the bravery of those individuals with a solemn remembrance ceremony. This year’s gathering began with an eloquent welcome from Memorial Superintendent Stephen Clark, followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance by students from the Shanksville-Stonycreek School District.

### Remembering the Names

Jacob Miller, an alumnus of Shanksville-Stonycreek Class of 2003, led the name presentation to honor the victims who perished on Flight 93. As the names were solemnly recited, Shanksville-Stonycreek School Art Teacher Joy Knepp and School Metalsmith Jan Loney rang the Bells of Remembrance, marking a poignant moment of reflection and remembrance.

### A Private and Public Wreath-laying Ceremony

The ceremony culminated with a private wreath-laying for family members of the passengers and crew. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro were in attendance, joining in the tribute by laying wreaths at the Wall of Names. In a public wreath-laying ceremony later in the day, members of the community had an opportunity to pay their respects and honor the memory of the heroes.

### Preserving History and Inspiring Future Generations

The Flight 93 National Memorial serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who lost their lives that day. It stands as a solemn reminder that even in the face of unspeakable tragedy, acts of heroism can prevail. The memorial provides a place for contemplation, education, and reflection, ensuring that the courage witnessed on Flight 93 will be remembered by future generations.

### Conclusion: A Call to Reflect and Act

As we commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th attacks, it is essential for us as a society to reflect not only on the lives lost but also on the bravery demonstrated by those who met adversity with unwavering courage. The events of that day remind us that ordinary individuals can rise to extraordinary heights when faced with extraordinary circumstances.

In an ever-changing world filled with challenges and divisions, the actions of the heroes on Flight 93 serve as a timeless example of unity, sacrifice, and the power of the human spirit. They remind us to look beyond our differences and embrace our shared humanity.

Let us honor the memory of the passengers and crew of Flight 93 by being inspired by their bravery and by carrying their legacy forward. By fostering a culture of empathy, compassion, and resilience, we can ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain and that their spirit of unity continues to guide us through the most challenging times.

*For more information about Flight 93 National Memorial and the annual remembrance ceremony, please visit the National Park Service website.*

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is the current affairs commentator for The New York Times.