Saluting America’s Heroes, Remembering 9/11

September 11^th will always be a difficult day for Americans as we struggle with the horrific memory of the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, D.C., and the crash of Flight 93 in Pennsylvania.

As painful as that memory can be, it’s also an opportunity for us to salute the many heroes of that day and think about how each of us can contribute to building a brighter future for America.

America needs strong leaders, a culture of doing good, and providing service to others. In Scouting, we work hard to deliver those values to our young people every day. We want our Scouts to grow to be strong contributors to their communities, lead by example, and encourage others to understand and live Scouting’s values. We need these young people to set the example and grow to be our next generation of great leaders.

Photo courtesy BSA Flickr

I can think of no better example of service than to come to the aid of your fellow man. Many rose to the occasion that fateful day and we will be forever grateful for their service to others, some at the expense of their own lives.

I’m always proud to hear how our Scouts across the country salute both the fallen and the surviving heroes of 9/11 with memorial events of their own.

• At the Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids, MI, Scouts from the President Ford Council will continue their tradition of offering a continuous Scout salute from sunrise to sunset.
• In Lawrenceville, GA, Scouts led the Pledge of Allegiance during 9/11 observances this month at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center’s Fallen Heroes Memorial, honoring public servants who lost their lives that day.
• In Wakarusa, IN, Scouts from the LaSalle Council are holding a Remembering 9/11 Blood Drive and memorial ceremony for the community.

I’m sure we all remember where we were when we first learned of the 9/11 tragedy and the terrible loss of life.  I hope you will all take a moment to pause in remembrance and then consider how you will take that step to help your fellow man. It may be big or small, but ever act of service helps to collectively build a stronger America.

Wayne