Never Forget

Washington, D.C. - Twenty-five years ago, America suffered the deadliest foreign attack on American soil in our nation's history.

I, like most Americans who lived through that day, remember it like it was yesterday. I remember the horror, helplessness, and anger of watching our country come under attack. But I also remember the tremendous pride and gratitude I felt as an American witnessing the courage, selflessness, and resolve shown by our fellow countrymen.

At the time, I was working for President Bush in the White House, and I remember watching him meet that horrific moment with tremendous compassion, decisiveness, and resolve.

I remember running out of the White House amid reports of a plane heading toward us. I remember the surreal feeling of being under siege as I watched smoke billowing from the Pentagon and fighter jets scrambling overhead.

I remember gathering with White House staff on the South Lawn to pray for our country. In the aftermath, I remember lining the hallway outside the Oval Office as victims' families walked out of a meeting with the President, everyone in tears.

I remember watching the footage and listening to the voicemails of those who lost their lives that day.

I remember our country uniting in grief and with a oneness of purpose. I remember people turning to God for comfort and strength. I remember Americans, regardless of their politics, standing proud of our country.

More than anything, I remember feeling like we were truly one nation, under God, and indivisible. And it was powerful beyond words.

Never forget.

###