Reflecting on 23 Years Since 9/11: A Tribute to Those Who Serve
It’s hard to believe that 23 years have passed since September 11, 2001. As I sit here reflecting on that day, the memories of the sights, sounds, and emotions still feel as vivid as ever. I remember that morning so clearly—a beautiful, crisp fall day with unbelievably clear blue skies. At the time, I was a student at Grand Valley. I remember driving home from class that morning with the sunroof open, thinking to myself how perfect the day was. That feeling of peace was such a stark contrast to the devastation that was about to unfold.
The shock of the attacks touched every part of life, and one of the biggest changes for me was how I viewed travel. Before 9/11, flying was always exciting—an adventure filled with anticipation. After that day travel took on a new meaning. There was more security, more precautions, and naturally, a sense of heightened anxiety each time I boarded a plane. But with those changes also came greater safety. The new measures allowed us to continue exploring the world with peace of mind, even if flying would never feel quite the same.
One flight in particular stands out. I was headed to Calgary, reading Horse Soldiers by Traverse City author Doug Stanton, which is an unbelievable account of the first U.S. Special Forces soldiers sent into Afghanistan after 9/11. As I sat there, thousands of feet in the air, revisiting the events of that day through Stanton’s words, the loss and devastation felt all too real. It made step into the human sacrifices in a way I hadn’t before—it really hit home.
On that tragic day, 2,977 innocent lives were lost at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Among those were 343 firefighters and 60 police officers who gave their lives rushing into danger when everyone else was running to safety. They showed us what it means to be a true hero, and their bravery is something we’ll never forget. In the days and weeks that followed, the outpouring of respect and appreciation for first responders was so heartwarming—and so deserved.
Their courage continues to inspire us to this day. In a world that still feels uncertain at times, those heroes remind us that there are always good people willing to step up and protect others, no matter the cost. It’s with that in mind that I want to show my gratitude to the police officers, firefighters, and first responders by offering a free lifetime subscription to Great Lakes Travel Deals. It’s my way of saying thank you for their unwavering commitment to keeping us safe.
As we remember those we lost on September 11th, let’s also remember the bravery, selflessness, and dedication of the heroes who ran toward danger that day. Their legacy lives on, inspiring us all to be better and to never forget the sacrifices made.
If you are, or know, a police officer, firefighter, or first responder who would like to take advantage of this offer, please contact us at support@greatlakestraveldeals.com, and we’ll be happy to get you signed up.
