Typically we use this space each week to update you about your Indiana Republican Party, our elected officials, and our county parties. This week, I wanted to do something a little different. Since today is the day before the 20^th anniversary of September 11, I wanted to share some reflections on that terrible day two decades ago.

It’s hard to believe that 20 years have passed since September 11, 2001. Like most Hoosiers who were alive in 2001, I still have vivid memories of that day. Seeing the towers hit by commercial airplanes and then collapse. Learning about the attack on the Pentagon and the heroic takeover of Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. Mourning the thousands of lives taken by terrorists, and feeling the anger and resolve of the nation to punish our attackers. The intervening 20 years hasn’t made that day and those feelings any less vivid. Never Forget isn’t just a slogan or social media hashtag; it’s a continual call to action for all Americans to remember that nearly 3,000 Americans were killed in an unprovoked terrorist attack. It also means we must always remember the heroes of that day, and every day since. The first responders who ran into danger to save lives, and the men and women of our armed services who avenged the attack and have fought to keep our nation safe for 20 years.

There’s a beautiful 9-11 memorial in downtown Indianapolis, constructed in part with steel from the World Trade Center and limestone from the Pentagon. Tomorrow, Governor Holcomb will speak at the re-dedication and expansion of the memorial. Next time you’re in Indianapolis, I encourage you to stop by and spend a few minutes there. It’s just two blocks west of the state house, fittingly in the shadow of an Indianapolis Fire Department station. On occasions I’ve visited the memorial, I’ve said a prayer for the victims and their families, reflected on the world-changing events of that day, and reaffirmed my resolve to not forget the courage and sacrifice of our first responders and our men and women in uniform who’ve defended us these last 20 years. Above all else, it is a fitting reminder that the freedoms we enjoy as Americans aren't free.

Thanks,
Kyle