The attacks of September 11, 2001, reshaped the face of America and the course of history. Our lives changed forever.

September 11th will forever remind us of unimaginable tragedy, of lives lost and the sorrow our nation felt as we watched airplanes flying into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon.

We must never forget the depths of inhumanity to which terrorists were willing to inflict, in an attempt to destroy the very principles of freedom and democracy.

Today, we remember the 2,749 heroes lost, seven buildings destroyed and 30 million square feet of commercial office space lost or damaged; we remember the 60,000 Americans who lost their jobs, 65,000 commuters who were dislocated and the 1.6 million tons of smoking debris that filled the World Trade Center site.

We salute America’s military men and women and First Responders who courageously serve. We honor those who gave their life protecting the freedoms you and I enjoy daily to inspire future generations to remain diligent in guarding freedom.

In May, I had the honor of spending the day at the 911 Memorial. The sacred ground captured my heart with what’s right in America and how we inspire future generations. The peaceful reflection pools paid tribute to lives lost and is a visible testimony of the day America showed the world, what makes us a great people.

Remembering September 11th reveals the true character of our nation – the day that freedom and democracy prevailed over oppression and triumphed over unspeakable evil.

Governor Ricketts also issued the following statement in observance of Patriot Day.

Let’s ensure that Patriot Day is a day that we as Americans come together as a country, and focus on our love of freedom as we combat the evils of terrorism that still threaten our Republic each and every day.  As we do so, let’s remember the fallen, honor our heroes, and never forget that we are one United States of America.”

This September 11th, take time to reflect. Pray for those grieving. Pray for our leaders to have God’s wisdom. Pray that we remain resolved to stand for FREEDOM where God is honored, families thrive and life is cherished.

Karen Bowling

Karen Bowling

Executive Director
When Karen isn't fulfilling her duties as the Executive Director of NFA, leading a women's Bible study, or coordinating a prayer meeting, she's usually with her five grandchildren that keep her busy, laughing, and young at heart.