Ten years ago, the fabric of our country was changed forever. If asked, most people can remember exactly where they were the moment they heard of planes crashing into the World Trade Center. It is a moment that is etched in our minds, dividing our nation's history from the days before the attacks to after.
No longer were we able to think that we were immune to the problems that other countries face. Problems such as terrorism and fear. We no longer took our safety for granted. As we mourned the loss of fellow Americans, we also banded together with a strong bond. After all, we are Americans and that is one of our cornerstones.
Today, here in the heart of the prairie, we enjoy safety, freedom, and a simple way of life. Yes, we are proud of our German heritage. We are proud of our state and of our town. But, even more so, we are proud of our nation.
Wishek residents remembered 9/11 in several different ways. A community chapel service including members of the local National Guard unit. During the service, attendees stopped to reflect on where they were when they heard of the tragedy and how, ten years later, they are still mourning.
Flags decorated the main street, flying in the gentle prairie breeze. The local burger joint was the lunch site to National Guardsmen in uniform. In many ways, it was a quintessential small town American day. But, we know that a price has been paid for our way of life.
So, to all of the people who have lost loved ones on September 11, 2001, to all of the heroic people who worked diligently to save lives during those horrific days and to the heroes who spent hours, weeks and months in clean up efforts at Ground Zero, please know, there is a little prairie town, called Wishek, North Dakota and we are proud of you.
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Don Weber, Fred Kelle Post
American Legion Commander
taking down flags at the end of the day. |
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| Don's helpers, fellow proud Americans |
