Tribute to Flight 93

On September 11, I choose to remember the brave ones of Flight 93, those who fought back when the day turned bleak. What I like most about their story is this: one of the last things they did in this world was to vote.

They voted to work against those who thought they could hurt America. This is one of the many reasons that make the U.S.A. a tremendous place to live: democracy isn't just a word to us - it's in our thoughts, our actions, our blood. We vote as easily, as quickly, as we breathe. Voting about things that matter is an integral part of our lives. We don't even think about it consciously: when it comes to the important things to be decided, we decide as a group.

This, more than anything else on this day, means America to me. I was surprised that none of the networks mentioned this fact, something that seemed so important to me. This is what proves that the terrorists won't - can't ever - win. They will never change the fundamentals that make America great. They can never change the way we look at ourselves. We will always hold true that democracy is the right thing for the U.S.A. We will continue to fight back, and we will continue to wave our flag.

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Winner of The Writer's Cramp, 9/11/08:
Both entries were excellent. I chose this one because the author took one tiny aspect of the much larger events she wrote about and focused all of her attention on it. It made for a much different story than I had expected. Her story was patriotic, encouraging, emotional, and passionate.

The Freedom Flag Foundation
PO Box 29282
Richmond, VA 23242-0282
http://www.freedomflagfoundation.org/

Some comments from reviewers:

"I enjoyed reading your entry. It was emotionally patriotic and explained the feelings you had when you heard about the tragic and terrible events of 9-11-2001.
         I liked that you chose one simple aspect of the much larger events to focus on for your story. It made for a much different story than I had expected. It was touching, but also encouraging, upbuilding, and passionate."

"We don't think about it, because it is second nature to us. Voting is so instilled in our national psyche, that in almost any group situation, it is common sense and expected. That is why there will never be a dictatorship in this country. One person cannot and will not 'dictate' the will of the people."

"You showed me something I hadn't even thought of about that day."

"Most people focus on the towers, but you went to a whole new level and went for not only Flight 93, but democracy. This tribute makes me realize even more what a great country this is."

"A tribute so meaningful to a country so powerful. Thank you for sharing your work that shows bravery, courage and the winning spirit of America and its people."

"I am not from America and I had absolutely no idea of it."

"I like how you focused on one particular thing about that day and showed it to be American: Voting. You showed me something I hadn't even considered about that day. I think of all the courageous American acts that came after, but now I can see one that came during, and it really does make me proud of my country."