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380AEW Article

380th AEW remembers 9/11

  • Published
  • 380th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  The 380th Air Expeditionary Wing honored the 11th anniversary of 9/11 by holding several events here.

The day's events began with a 5-kilometer run/walk, continued with a 12-hour flag carry, and ended with a memorial ceremony at the wing's 9/11 memorial site.

Brig. Gen. Paul McGillicuddy, 380th AEW commander, spoke at the memorial ceremony. What follows are his remarks from the event:

"Eleven years ago, four hijacked aircraft changed the path of our nation. For many of us, the images of these aircraft impacting the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon are now captured in our minds forever.

"Ask anyone where they were when this attack occurred, and they vividly remember. This is a testament to the powerful effect this event had - anchoring a lasting impression into our memories. This act was intended to instill fear, but instead inspired a nation. Our perceptions of liberty and freedom were challenged - and the world watched. You, the men and women in uniform, accepted that challenge.

"All that gather here today know all too well that for these past 11 years, we have been engaged in war against a network of groups and individuals dedicated to destroying the U.S. and our way of life. Our strength, our dedication and our endurance have been tested for over a decade.

"We have not faltered and we will not fail. We will seek these evildoers out and punish them wherever they might be. Today we remember the innocent ones who lost their lives - men, women and children who died for no other reason than for being American -- we do this so our nation prevails and so that the world be left a better place for all.

"Over time, we may not remember exactly what was said here today -- but we will never forget what we are here to memorialize. Let us never forget those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. Our charge is to ensure that those who have passed before us have not died in vain, that our sacrifices have not been in vain, that we ensure a renewed lease on freedom, and that the greatest nation ever assembled shall not perish from the face of the earth.

"Thank you -- every Airman, soldier, sailor, and marine -- for your service. God bless you and the United States of America."