As our nation observes the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 11 September, 2001, I have a question: has anyone forgotten?  I understand that for some, the memory has faded, a dark time in America has started to heal, only to be brought back to the forefront of our minds as the media covers people's decade-long reactions to this attack not only the American people,  but the very ideology offered by the American Dream.  The sites targeted by those unprovoked attacks represent the principles that American stands for: the tradition of excellence in the US Military's Pentagon, and the prospects of entrepreneurial venture and unbelievable success stories offered by world trade, symbolized by the World Trade Center.  The final attack was against the ideals of Democracy, and, if successful, would have been a direct blow to US Capitol, the very facility where the Democratic process is most evident.  Thanks to the courage and sacrifice of those on board, that final target was never hit, but if it had, I have faith in the American people that we would have drove on, regardless of the facility being damaged.  It had been evacuated, and Democracy would have lived on: the Capitol is a building.  Democracy is an idea, a mentallity.  It doesn't need a fancy building to happen.  All it needs is the drive of passionate people, and America has no shortage in that area!

The most common question about the 9/11 attacks is "where were you?"  I can tell you where I was.  I was in-between classes, going from Chemistry to Spanish, my Sophomore year of high school.  Suddenly all the TVs in the school came on at once--they were all controlled by the admin office--and we all arrived in our next class with this terrible news.  I was stunned.  It never truly sank in for several days.  It was a day that burned itself into my memory, much like those who tell of the attacks on Pearl Harbor.  Those people will never forget, and I know how they feel.

Through high school, and to this day, I have had a passion burning from that day.  My passion was not immediately military-based.  During my senior year of high school, I joined my local EMS organization.  I volunteered to provide emergency medical care to the sick and injured.  After high school, I continued to do so, while also attending Fire Academy.  When I had trouble finding a job in the firefighting field, I joined the Army as a Combat Medic.  I still feel as though I am helping people, much like the firefighters who responded to the scenes of the 9/11 attacks. 

I am again in Baghdad, helping my brothers-in-arms stay in the fight against terror.  On this Patriot's Day, I am reminded of why I joined: to help people.  I remember the helplessness I felt on 9/11/01... it was the worst feeling I've ever felt.  I didn't feel helpless for myself.  I just knew there was absolutely nothing I could do to help the situation at Ground Zero.  There was no way for me to go to the site and help people, rescue victims, comfort families.  I can't feel like that again, not if there is anything I can do to stop it. 

I have been trained to save lives, and to take lives if necessary.  God forbid it become necessary, but taking one life to save tens, or hundreds, or thousands, would be a far better alternative. 

Reflecting on the past decade, I remember feeling a certain distrust for people of middle-eastern background.  I no longer feel that way, but I can understand why some might.  I would like to tell anyone who still feels hatred or anger at Muslims or other middle-easterners, Islam is not to blame.  I am a Christian myself, but in my two tours of duty in the Middle East, I have learned to respect Islam as a religion of peace.  The vast majority, at least 90% and maybe even 99% of Muslims, are peaceful and believe Jihad to be a spiritual battle within oneself.  Those extremists that wish us ill are making up an excuse for their violence.  I must say that Christianity, and our religious roots of Judaism, have similarly bloody histories; consider the crusades, and don't judge the majority by the actions of a few.

Finally, rather than focusing on the past, let's look to the future.  As Americans, we must strive for greatness, even in the midst of adversity.  Our leaders are working toward an end to our current economy woes; let them do their job, and help them, too.  Take pride in your country and yourself.  Help your fellow man, do what you can to make America stronger, and continue to strive for that American Dream.  Prove to those terrorists from ten years ago and from today that they may destroy our buildings, they may cause destruction on our lands, but they cannot break our spirits, and they will NEVER bring down the American Dream!