Friend,

On September 11, 2001, I sat strapped in the back seat of a fully loaded two-seat F/A-18 jet just off runway 24L at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, engines running, ready to launch at a moment’s notice.

Two planes had already crashed into the World Trade Center, and another had crashed into the Pentagon. If required, my section of two fighter jets would intercept any passenger airliner that wasn’t responding to air traffic control’s commands and could have been attacking Los Angeles or San Diego.

I listened intently, as each new radio call could have been the one that ordered us airborne. At the age of 26, in that cockpit on 9/11, I hoped and prayed that the leadership of my country knew what was best. I would do my part to defend us should I be called.

In the end, we were never given a call to launch, but the intensity of that experience was unforgettable—and a reminder that the responsibilities of leadership are immense.

We need leaders we can trust—leaders who are competent, who have the courage to step up, and do what is best for our country.

The tragedies of 9/11 can never be undone, and I mourn the victims who lost their lives that day and those who have been permanently affected in its aftermath.

America’s response to that event 18 years ago reminds me of the fabric and resilience of our nation. It speaks of our capacity to look past divisions, come together and act for the common good.

Today, I’ll be reflecting on that lesson, and resolve to continue to do my part in the defense of our nation.

Amy