We never forget. I will never forget.

I was in high school on 9/11 2001. I watched hopelessly as the planes flew into buildings, the towers fell, and brave men and women on United 93 fought back.

At the end of the day, as horrific the act was, it was the heroism I remember the most. Not just on U93, but the firefighters who died climbing UP the towers, those who we will never know who delayed their descents to help others, and the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines at the Pentagon who, with no gear, ran into the flames to evacuate their comrades. 

Still, it was the lines at the blood banks, the construction workers sifting through the rubble for days, and the millions at home, like my dad, who hoisted their flags to full-staff. Millions of Americans rallied together that fateful day; 9/11 didn't knock us out, it brought out the best in us.

As I said, I was in high school on 9/11 and that was the day I vowed to myself to join the military and devote my life to public service. This day has always been a reminder to me, no matter how far I am from home or how difficult the mission ahead, WHY I serve.

Today, I remember and I know you do too.

-Andrew