Greetings from a defender of freedom in Afghanistan! I'm also glad to see this thread. I posted a comment or two to facebook last night about 9-11...I thought I'd share some thoughts here as well.

We had a small, simple remembrance ceremony here yesterday in honor of all those that have answered the call. As a part of this service, they read President Bush's State of the Union Address delivered to Congress on 20 September 2001. I remember watching this address on the television. I bet a fair number of you Americans on here also remember. There was a standing ovation and roaring applause throughout the entire Congress about every 3-4 sentences. For the first time since probably 1941-1945 we were truly a country united. Eight short years later we have all but forgotten. We are a country torn between democrats and republicans; between socialism and democracy. Our will to fight has waned, yet Soldiers are still dying almost daily. I fear that we have lost our way again...

Of course I do, and will always, remember where I was when I heard the news. The memory I would like to share now with you, however, is a different one that still gets me choked up whenever I think about it. I remember as I watched it I had tears in my eyes...and I share this in appreciation for our allies and friends around the globe.

I'm pretty sure it was 12 September 2001...I was watching the news more than normal...as were most other Americans. One of the stories broadcast that day was the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. The Royal Family was in attendance. There was a wreath laying ceremony to honor all of those that lost their lives the day prior and as part of the ceremony they hoisted the American flag and played the Star-Spangled Banner over the Palace in a show of solidarity and a common loss. I was deeply touched by the support and will always remember that broadcast.