September 11, 2022
Dear Flying Partners,
There are moments in history that shape the future. For better or worse these pivotal events have been a turning point for humanity. From wars to pandemics our humanity has been tested. When such an event comes to pass in the wake of tragedy we have a choice, we can allow the actions taken to dictate our path forward or we can come together and shape the future into something brighter.
Every day we come to work with the responsibility as aviation’s first responders and aviation’s last line of defense.
Twenty-one years ago, on September 11, 2001 the terrorist attacks launched against our nation shined a light on the evil in our world. Words cannot describe the feelings we experienced the moment our world shattered irreparably upon learning that commercial airliners had been hijacked and were being used to commit unthinkable acts of terror. The Flight Attendants and Pilots on board were our family. They were ripped from us leaving a gaping hole in our lives that can never be filled.
This day will forever remain in history but not for the actions of evil that tried to break our nation but for the bravery and humanity of the individuals who gave their all. The bravery of the Flight Attendants, Pilots, and passengers of those four fateful flights who relayed the first intelligence of the attacks and who acted without reservation against evil, sacrificing their own lives to protect our country and the lives of countless others. The bravery of the first responders of New York City, Shanksville Pennsylvania and the Pentagon who arrived first on the scene giving their lives in the service of others. The bravery of the countless volunteers who helped put our nation back together, and the strength of the people across our nation and around the world who came together to help us heal.
The attacks on September 11th were meant to divide us. But what they did was remind us of our humanity, our strength, and our solidarity.
On this twenty-first remembrance of September 11th, we look back to honor the ultimate sacrifices made by so many. We continue our vow to keep their memories alive and to Never Forget.
We will Never Forget our humanity. We will Never Forget our compassion. We will Never Forget their sacrifice, and we will Never Forget the heroes we lost.
On this day and every day, carry their memory with you. We will Never Forget.
In Solidarity,
Ken Diaz, President
United Master Executive Council
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