On September 11 we do not only remember the lost lives of the horrific attack of 9/11, but also, all the lives who are at this very moment across the Atlantic Ocean fighting for a world without terrorism; a war against terrorism.

On Monday around 8:45 AM flags flew at half staff all across the nation. A pause to remember and respect all the victims and heroes of September 11, 2001 was done by every true American worldwide.

“....we recall the fire and horror at the twin towers of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and at a Pennsylvania field...In the face of these unspeakable attacks, we were reminded that the great strength of America is found in the hearts and souls of our citizens...” said President George W. Bush.

In the small town of Sabinal the spirit of 9/11 also dwelled there.

The High School Student Council held a ceremony in front of the High School building to pay tribute to the lost lives. Student Council Members: Katie Bales, Tasha Flores, Nicole Lopez, and Bobbi Moore presented a proclamation given by President George W. Bush in dedication to 9/11. They guided the crowd through the moments of silence, and read poetry by Sue Ikerd in honor of the New York City Firefighters and our Lady of Liberty.

In the proclamation, President George W. Bush announced that September 11 is officially “Patriot Day.”

“By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001, the Congress has designated September 11 of each year as ‘Patriot Day’,” announced the president.

Many people ask why we honor the five year anniversary of 9/11. Why it’s so important to acknowledge such an event in history?

“History has taught us that we must remember both the rewards and tragedies of historical events. We continue to learn from the past so we may appreciate our future,” Mrs. Singleton, speech teacher, said.

“If we don’t acknowledge the event annually, people may distance themselves from it and forget. If we forget those who died, then they would have died in vain,” Mrs. Braden, English teacher, said. “We have now seen the consequence of a nation being unprepared, so by remembering

we can prevent such incidents.”

It is because of this incident that we have been engaged in a war against terrorism since the attack.

“America did not ask for this war, and every American wishes it was over,” President Bush said. “The war is not over and it will not be over until either we or the extremist emerge victorious. We are fighting to maintain the way of life enjoyed by free nations.”

However, many people don’t agree with this “war on terrorism”.

“I hate war. My daughter has been deployed twice this past year and a half, and she fails to understand or see that we are not making any difference in Iraq. I know we have made a statement to the world in our reaction to being attacked, but how many people’s lives does it take before our point is made,” Sean Johnston, principal, said.

War or no war, the attack on September 11, 2001 will always be marked in every American’s heart and will never be forgotten.

“America will always remember the thousands of innocent lives taken by the enemies of freedom that morning,” said President Bush.