Friend, today marks one of the most solemn anniversaries in our history—a day for remembrance of the 9/11 victims and survivors, gratitude for our collective resilience, and a renewed resolution to uphold the ideals of our nation.

Today should never be about politics—but just yesterday, Mitch McConnell released a new ad questioning my patriotism and judgment regarding the September 11 attacks.

They can call me names all they want, but to attack me on 9/11 is beyond the pale.

I remember exactly where I was on September 11th, 2001. That morning, shortly after planes had crashed into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, I was sitting in the cockpit of a fighter jet at the end of the runway 24L in Miramar Marine Corps Air Station in Southern California, awaiting orders to engage any aircraft that might be en route to another attack.

As anyone would be, I was nervous. I was worried. But I was also ready to answer the call for my country—no matter what I might be asked to do, and no matter how it might play out.

That order never came that day. But the reality is, the call to defend our nation in times of crisis isn’t a one-time thing. It’s never the task of just one day.

Fighting for what’s right is a constant responsibility. It’s an immense duty. It’s one our leaders should take seriously—today, and every day.

Today is no day to play politics—really, there’s no day when politics should ever prevent us from moving forward together as a nation, especially in times of crisis.

I’ll be spending today remembering and reflecting on that truth.

In solidarity,
Amy