Honoring the Heroes: Remembering 9/11 with 'Never Forget'

By Maj. Patrick ConnellySeptember 13, 2023

9/11 Run 2023
7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Soldiers, their families, and DoD ID cardholders run on September 11, 2023, during the annual 9/11 Memorial Run at Camp "Bull" Simons, Florida to honor the fallen from the September 11, 2001, attacks. With every kilometer, runners were reminded of the solidarity and strength that define our nation. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dahnyce Baucom) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dahnyce Baucom) VIEW ORIGINAL

It has been 22 years since the terrorist attack on September 11th, 2001, and the words “Never Forget” still resonate with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) community. Fire departments from Eglin Air Force Base, and Crestview, Florida, along with the Okaloosa Police Department joined soldiers from the Red Empire during their annual remembrance ceremony and 9/11 Memorial Run on Camp “Bull” Simons.

“It was a defining moment in our history, and we remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great nation since that day,” said Lt. Col. Patrick Nelson, 7SFG(A) Commander. “‘Never forget’ are the two words we use to remember that fateful day. As you conduct your duties throughout the day, remember and honor the legacy of those who came before us.”

The names of 50 Special Forces soldiers who have given everything to their country after September 11th were read to the audience as they stood for a moment of silence. Over the past two decades of war, men and women from all backgrounds have united to serve this great nation selflessly, supported by their families and Army Civilians. The strength of our nation lies in America's Army, and its men and women in uniform who continue to epitomize resiliency, power, and unwavering commitment to the country.

“We share similar missions, and we all have stories of where we were during that fateful morning,” said Sheriff Eric Adden, Okaloosa County Sheriff. “We work side by side with firefighters daily and their heroic actions that have saved thousands of lives. The military had to react after that attack, and I thank you for what you have done and continue to do for our country and community.”

This shared experience links the nation together, forming an unbreakable bond that weaves soldiers, civilians, families, and the American people into the fabric of our country. We remember the souls we lost on September 11, 2001, and pay tribute to all the patriots and their families who have sacrificed their lives to defend freedom.

Our Army's culture, history, profession, and values draw upon our shared national experience to increase our readiness. We stand united, knowing that our Army remains steadfast in its dedication to defending the principles and freedoms that make the United States of America a beacon of hope and democracy in the world. In the face of ongoing threats, America's Army stands ready, unwavering in its mission to protect the homeland and uphold the values that define our great nation.