By Don

September 11, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Seven years have passed and we still haven’t captured Osama bin Laden… It makes me sick.

My heart and prayers go out tot he families of the victims.

By Earl

September 11, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

God Bless America. Vote McCain/Palin so this will not happen again.

By Ex-Northerner

September 11, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

I hope everyone will take a moment at some point today to remember all those who died in NY, Washington and Pennsylvania, and those who have served and now serve in our Miliary. On behalf of my husband, I would also like to pay tribute to the Native Americans who died on 9/11 as there were many. I’d also like to thank the Warriors, men and women, who have served and returned, have served and died, and are now serving in Iraq and Afghanistan for their service to our Country. This is a day for rememberance of those who died rather than a day for politics. Thanks.

By eric

September 11, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Watched 3 children talk about their father, who they hardly remember.. how sad.

Then watched The Obamanation talk about how we need to give “service” to our country. How this cowardly, appeaser, who wants to surrender this country to his brethren, has the nerve to even show his face today is beyond me - How someone would consider voting for him is beyond comprehension.

By Jeff

September 11, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Truly tasteless Earl, injecting your political opinions into this blog for remembering 9/11. Show some respect. Have a little class.

By Black

September 11, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Remember to vote obama/biden I you really want change!!!!

By Black

September 11, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Yeah the past 8 years have been great around this county right? Give me a break!!!!!Just say no to Bush and all of his friends!!!!!

By Bill

September 11, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Jeff - You Sir are an idiot..

You talk about injecting politics into something as inconsequential as a blog.. while I’m sure your proud that Mr. Hussein Barack uses the occasion to show his cowardly face .. He’s the one who should show some class and disappear for a few days, since if it was up to him 9/11 would be an everyday ocurrance.

And Black..

Yes the past 8 years have been Great.. not 1 more attack on this country.. thanks to brave men and women and a President who won’t SURRENDER. What? the past 8 years have been bad for you ‘cause they cut your welfare payments?

By Matt the Brave

September 11, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

On this day, I remember Corporal Joshua H. Reeves. He was my best friend growing up, and he died a year ago on Sept. 21st. His son was born the day before he died, and he will never know his father. This said, I want the US to finish the job in Iraq that they were sent to do, and I want us to leave with honor. I don’t want Josh’s memory to be wrapped up in failure.

GO USA!

By justin

September 11, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

As I sit to write this, I am full of thoughts that I need to express. Not knowing exactly what to write, I do know that I must write something. As an American, on the 7th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept 11, I feel compelled to speak out on the behalf of the attacks unsung heros, the fligt attendants and pilots of those planes that would change history.

I am the proud partner of a very proud flight attendant. How could I not be proud, with each trip he leaves with the uncertanity that he will return, and he does it with utmost professionalism and honor. We forget that on that fatal day, there were a group of heros on each plane that were the first ones to die for their country. Before the world knew of the horrible tragedy of Sept 11, the flight crews had already perished upholding their duty to protect their passengers. As the world watched the burning towers of the World Trade Center and wept for the firefighters, police officers, and victims of the attacks, the flight crews of the planes overtaken by terrorists had already been the first victims.

As the first line of defense in any airtravel, flight attendants risk their life every day for the saftey of their passengers. They are trained to save the lives of travelers, and to defend the flight deck of the plane. I can not imagine the fear that must have overcome those fight attendants of this fateful day 7 years ago. In the face of that fear, they stood tall and proud to do everything they could do to provide saftey to passengers. They were the first ones killed and seems the last ones remembered.

Please let us not forget that Flight Attendants fly not to merely to serve soda and pretzels, but ultimatly to provide saftey to their passengers. Respect is all they ask for in return. Let us remember the next time we are delayed, or grumpy due to events beyond the control of anyone, that the crew is there to protect you. Much as police officers stand guard on the ground every day flight attendants stand guard in the air.

I dont know if you will ever get the chance to read this, but I feel better knowing that I have the opportunity to stand up for a loved one, and speak in the absense of those no longer with us.

Sincerely,

Justin Taylor

By Gary

September 11, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Wow it sickens me that some of you come on here to tout your hatred of Bush and push your political talking points for both parties. Today is not a day to preach politics. If anything, today should be about something more than politics, right or left, liberal or conservative, republican or democrat. Today should be a day to remember those who were lost on that horrific day, pray for the families who for seven long years and many more to come have to wake up without their loved one that perished that morning simply for going to work. Think and pray for the children who will never know their father or mother and parents who lost sons or daughters. Today is a day to celebrate freedom and to think about those who are fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, those who have fought and returned and those who fought and sadly did not return. I remember that morning and will never forget those we lost and those brave men and women who tried so desperately to save lives in the burning buildings and those who tried to thwart the terrorist in the hijacked planes. Today is their day, not another day of everyday politics. We can get back to that tomorrow. God Bless America and those we lost on 9/11/2001.

By Speed Demon

September 11, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

YES. Vote McCain!! If you vot Obama in 08’ it’s Osama in 09’ Muslims need to deport the USA immediately.

By Black

September 11, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

So Bill how much are your gas prices? How is your healtcare plan? How much is that? Have you seen how many YOUNG men and women have died? Where is binladen in Iraq I dont think so!!! Still like the past8 years? Oh by the way i dont need walfare I make over 70,000 a year. GO OBAMA A man with a real plan!!! And I could care less that McCain was a POW! Just an excuse to go to war!!!

By theman

September 11, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

May God bless all of the families that lost loved ones during the 911 tragedy? But is a child that lost a parent to HIV, Cancer, War, Drunk Drivers, etc…Any better off or more fortunate than the kids whose parents died at the twin towers. Answer: HELL NO!!!. But there lies the hypocrisy of this country, we have lost and continue to loss ten times more U.S. citizens to the afore mentioned diseases and societal norms, then we tend to try and sweep these issues under the rug. We will only begin to grow as a country when we open our eyes to all of these issue that effect our society and stop being bigots and playing games with the minds of the “NONE THINKERS”, GOD bless their souls, “For they no not what they doeth”. But for those of you who are driven by such evil factors as Racism, Sexism, and Supremacy of any Kind may God and his have mercy upon your wretched souls. It’s time for a change in this country and since we want to play politics with this BLOG and in the beliefs displayed by our soon to be Vice-President Sarah Palin (heavens forbid) if we don’t do something to effect change ourselves, as history has shown us time and time again GOD will set his wrath down on this country and then we will get REAL CHANGE. So God fix the bigots and hypocrites that run this country and most of all GOD BLESS AMERICA and Barack Obama

By RamblinLonghorn

September 11, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Speed Demon:

It’s great when idiots like yourself prove how utterly ignorant they truly are.

“Muslims need to deport the USA immediately.”

Wow. It’s simply astounding that someone who doesn’t know what the word ‘deport’ means could operate a computer long enough to navigate to an obscure blog. I hereby order you to ‘deport’ from the internet.

By Greg

September 11, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

To those of you who are choosing to use this forum as a platform for political posturing, from both the left and the right, shame on you.

God bless the families of those who were lost seven years ago. Let’s hope that those who are responsible for this horror can be found and brought to justice soon.

By celllife

September 11, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

Eric wow what a message. Bush started a war based on lies. We are spending 10 Billion dollars a month. Over 4000 soldiers have died. Obama has been saying we were fighting the wrong war. On a day of morning I think about the families and the loss. Not spreading your political views

By SEVEN YEARS!!!

September 11, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

I can’t concentrate on work today. I can’t get online to check my email without passing all these memorial headlines. I feel like we have become too complacent in the past seven years and let ourselves forget how horrible that day and the weeks and months following really were. It seems like everyone wants to use this forum to talk about the presidential race eventhough the candidates are supposedly taking the day off. I think we need to completely put politics aside today and remember what was lost - the people, our security, our innocence. I am trying to remember all the things that have changed in our lives and the world because of that day. While it seems like a distant memory I still can’t watch a movie or documentary about the attacks. It brings back too many memories. It was one week before my 21st birthday. I had just transfered schools to move back home near my family. I was living with my aunt who flew out on the first flight to New York that morning. While I was able to confirm her plane had landed just before the attacks it took all day for us to reach her. Then I had to go to my parents’ house so that my little brothers wouldn’t be home alone after school. They were in 5th & 7th grades at the time. I still get upset when I think about the youngest one asking me why anyone would hate the U.S. Trying to explain that to him is the moment I think I lost my innocence.

By Dan

September 11, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

Well, Dave, you certainly proved what you are…

By Gary

September 11, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

Dave and Black - you guys need some serious help. There is a place in Gainesville that might be able to help.

Justin…..regardless of your preferences and whether people disagree with them or not, that was a very moving post. I am sorry that some ignorant nameless bloggers have to come on and spill hate filled comments like those of the two above.

To the conspiracy theorist and political honks…..get a life. Today is not the day.

By GaLiberal

September 11, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

I plan on burring an American flag to protest the loss of personal freedoms and civil liberties by Bush and the Rethuglicons. These people shamelessly used 9/11 to pass unAmerican laws like the USA Patriot Act. They empowered agencies like the FBI and TSA will God-like authority and no checks on their abuse of power. They used 9/11 as a pretext to justify a reckless and unnecessary Iraq war. McCain is just more of the same. Palin is just sop to the right-wing religoNazis that want to force everyone into their view of a ‘Christian country.’

When you vote Rethuglicon, you vote against your own best interests. And these 9/11 remembrances are living proof.

By Robin

September 11, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I pray for the loved ones lost and those left behind to grieve in New York, the Pentagon, and that Pennsylvania field. We, as Americans, who had never experienced an attack on our own soil lost our innocence that day. But, we also gained a “brotherhood” amoungst ourselves. Do you remember how patriotic we all were? Do you remember how strangers helped each other and held hands, prayed together, cried together? We were UNITED and the best of humanity was also seen that day and in the weeks after 9-11.

After saying these things, perhaps some think that politics don’t come into play, but they have to come into play. If we had a weak leader at that time, as a country, we would have fallen apart. Instead, we wiped off the ashes, climbed out of the rubble, and took up guns to defend ourselves and our country. God Bless our troops! and PLEASE, God Bless our country!

By Van

September 11, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

I plan to quietly reflect on those that were lost.

It would be nice if someone from the AJC would delete the inflammatory comments that are being posted by the trolls.

Today is not about politics, it is about rememberance.

By abc

September 11, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

As I was driving in listening to The Regular Guys on the radio making jokes about what poor press it’d be for the airline whose plane crashed into the tower, especially if the tail were sticking out with a discernible logo, the 2nd plane hit. All of a sudden The Regular Morons stopped making jokes and started making like Rush Limbaugh or something. What pieces of work. Tools, I should say.

My boss walked around all morning hassling people to get back to work.

After everyone’s contrition set in real well, I marveled at how well the terrorist’s acts had worked for them. They got a lot more than I would have originally thought, what with all the heightened security, people afraid to fly, becoming the central political topic, etc. etc. Why, they became the reason still often cited for our country starting a war, all by itself. How much more effective could they have possibly been?

By Bill

September 11, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Why don’t we all have to stop and think about the 4,000 troops that have died in this unnecessary and contrived war by the Bush Administration? Or, why don’t we stop and think about the 100,000 troops that have been maimed and injured? Or, why don’t we stop and think about the 1 million innocent Iraqi citizens that have been killed and their families have been forever displaced because of our attack on their country which had nothing to to with 9/11?

By Gary

September 11, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Sorry Dave but I don’t fight adolescents. Enjoy your day working at the Cracker Barrel (one L, not two) on Delk Rd.

GaLib - thats fine that you use burning a flag in protest of Bush and his policies. You have that right as an American and the right to protest on this day. However, with class today is a day to lay all of that aside and remember those who died.

Van - I wholeheartedly agree. However the AJC would not be following its beliefs if it did not allow the loons to speak so passionately about politics on a day they should be set aside. Know the messenger.

By Bill

September 11, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Why don’t we all have to stop and think about the 4,000 troops that have died in this unnecessary and contrived war by the Bush Administration? Or, why don’t we stop and think about the 100,000 troops that have been maimed and injured? Or, why don’t we stop and think about the 1 million innocent Iraqi citizens that have been killed and their families have been forever displaced because of our attack on their country which had nothing to to with 9/11?

By hwr

September 11, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

9/11 will always be a dark and sadden time for America. We have lost some brave and strong people who was put into a very dangerous sitution…yet, they acted upon it as any American would. A time for prayers to day for me was my memories of 9/11. It indeed profound that we are still at war for something that someone knew what was going on and yet, let it happen when it could have been prevented. I will tell everyone, this day, the time, and this very monment; September 11, 2001 shall never be forgotten and the Chapter will never be closed! God Speed!

By Mike

September 11, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

With the back drop of this anniversary and the state that our country is in now- housing crisis, energy crisis, gas prices, loss of jobs,two wars and basically looked down upon around the world and all either party (democrat and republicans)can talk about is “Lipstick on a Pig”. We are in a sad state when that took up the all the news cast and even Larry King Live! Obama and McCain and their running mates need to start talking about what matters and forget the mud slinging- We are sick of it!

By Duchessherri

September 11, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

I remember the pervasive sadness of everyone in the USA. I remember the jeers and laughs of the terrorists as they watched us American greive for the families who were ripped apart by the (to us) senseless bombings. The horror of the deaths and the evil that spawned it were unbelievable. I remember, back then, that Americans were truly united in wanting to put an end to all terrorists. And now we are backing down, turning tail, and running. We’ve given up the war on terrorism and I wonder how much shame we’ll have to endure when the terrorists once again annihilate some of our citizens. Giving up means letting the deaths of 9/11 be in vain, for nothing. They should have spurred us on to victory over the terrorists and yet we’ve decided to back off and give them a chance to kill again. Terrorists are not reasonable, they cannot be bargained with because they do not think compassionately as you and I do. Be not mistaken, the terrorists want to obliterate every single American because they hate us with a vengeance. And we are giving up. I loved the hero cries of 9/11 and I weep for the spineless wimps we Americans have become.

By Lynn

September 11, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

We are all Americans today so stop the Political craziness.

I was in NY that day and I am a New Yorker. So that says it all.

By Gary

September 11, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

God Bless you Lynn….I am sorry that you had to see that horror in person and you are right We are all Americans and we need to remember how we felt right after that day. Sadly it seems we don’t.

By Tracy

September 11, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

I remember the feelings in my gut 9-11 and I can say this. Thank you President Bush for keeping it over there and no more attacks.

Mr Black it was up to Congress to maintain the economics of this country and they have a 13% approval rating. Maybe if they were doing their jobs like President Bush we would all be fine. But this democratic congress has done nothing that they promised since coming into a majority. Whats up with that.

God Bless the families affected by 9-11. God Speed.

By GaLiberal

September 11, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Gary said: GaLib - thats fine that you use burning a flag in protest of Bush and his policies. You have that right as an American and the right to protest on this day. However, with class today is a day to lay all of that aside and remember those who died.

What Gary can’t grasp (because he’s too self-centered) it that 9/11 occurred because Bush wasn’t paying attention. These people didn’t have to die. Bush was just a spoiled rich kid who wanted to play President for a few years. 9/11 gave him to opportunity to become a defacto dictator. He could send out the military and kiss some Muslim a$$. So these 9/11 sideshows are nothing but photo ops for Bush and the Rethuglicons. The country needs to move on, but Bush and the Rethuglicons won’t let that happen.

When you vote Rethuglicon, you vote against your own best interests. And Gary is living proof.

By Earl

September 11, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Obama is Muslim and Muslims did this to us. We can’t trust the Muslim Obama anymore than we can trust Bin Laden the Muslim. Their faith and desire to destroy Amercia is what their lives are predicated on. God Bless Amercia; God bless the souls of all those that died on 9-11-01 and God bless those left behind to mourn them.

By Richard

September 11, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Some very sincere notes and some very callous cruel notes have been posted. I admired Jason’s notes about his partner ..flight attendants the first to die. My ex wife was a Delta attendant and I first saw the explosions and prayed it was not one of their planes. She was ok and still flys with them. My current wife’s ex was in Washington DC near the Pentagon and drove back 24 hours in a rental car to get back to Atlanta. 7 years later we as a society are wracked with problems but still have the Same American Spirit. I hope we can preserve this as we go forward.

By Hellbent

September 11, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Earl; Give it a rest. People like you who keep referring to the future President of the United States as a “Muslim” are only showing your true ignorance. Get over your self and your jingoistic thinking. It’s sheep like you who got us into the mess we’re in right now and the reason we, the mighty US of A, are the laughing stock of the world.

By Gary

September 11, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Since when did asking for politics be put aside and remember the fallen become self centered? GaLib I am sorry that my votes for Republican candidates shames you, but that is my right as an American just like you have the right to spew vile attacks on those who do not agree with you and your message that you will burn the flag. We both have those rights and that is why we were attacked on 9/11. It was an attack on liberty and everything this country stands for. I am sorry that you do not like Bush and you feel he did a bad job as President. However not everyone, and I can say with absolute certainty, the majority of people do not feel he caused 9/11 and his initial response was what we need in a leader. We can debate what happened the rest of his Presidency another day. If that is being self centered, well then I am guilty.

Also you say that this country needs to move on from 9/11. Well why don’t you tell that to the near 3000 families that lost loved ones that day. I think you might find some of them will disagree with you. And I am sure some other Americans will disagree with you too.

By Me.

September 11, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Why you guys are turning this into a political thing is beyond me. I am a Georiga born veteran who was living in NYC at the time. I fled my office in fear like everyone else only I had to put on my uniform and go back to that place which I remember being a real ‘hell on earth’. I heard grown men crying, I heard how several fire fighters died, I saw 2 huge office buildings that were reduced to dust with the occasional shoe thrown in. I remember being there to lend a hand but there was no one to lend a hand to. I went home and cried and prayed. It was such a horrible day that we will all remember in one way or another. Don’t cheapen it by your political rants, there are other outlets for that. Let this be a sincere form of sharing memories.

By hsiobhanc

September 11, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

On 9/11 I was in West Orange NJ, where the World Trade Center was just an hours ride away through the Lincoln Tunnel. Everybody came from the break room when the first plane hit saying it must be a hoax, it can’t be true. Second plane hits and our office is in chaos. Cell phones are ringing nonstop. Highways are jammed, traffic is at a standstill, buses and trains are about to shut down, if you’re going to get home you need to leave NOW. My Grandmother works in New York and sometimes my mother goes to see her, I can’t reach either of them. They didn’t say they were meeting today, but who knows, people can be spontaneous right? Please don’t let today be the day they decided to go shopping. My cousin worked for Dean Witter in the World Trade Center, we couldn’t reach her. A second cousin was a police officer in Harlem, couldn’t reach her either. Did they go to work today? Is one running for her life while the other is called in to help find survivors? My husband reenlists right after 9/11, deploys twice to Iraq in 2 years, comes home the second time needing a knee replacement at 25, this is what I remember about 9/11

By Me.

September 11, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Why you guys are turning this into a political thing is beyond me. I am a Georiga born veteran who was living in NYC at the time. I fled my office in fear like everyone else only I had to put on my uniform and go back to that place which I remember being a real ‘hell on earth’. I heard grown men crying, I heard how several fire fighters died, I saw 2 huge office buildings that were reduced to dust with the occasional shoe thrown in. I remember being there to lend a hand but there was no one to lend a hand to. I went home and cried and prayed. It was such a horrible day that we will all remember in one way or another. Don’t cheapen it by your political rants, there are other outlets for that. Let this be a sincere form of sharing memories.

By Dan

September 11, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

I use 9-11 to show regrets for mistakes of the past year to melt away the past.

By Soma

September 11, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you that lost loved ones and all of us that have been touched on this date September 11,2001. This tells me that we should continue to love one another at ALL times. The peace of God be with you always!

By Joyce

September 11, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

I remember with saddness for our losses and with pride for our defenders. However, I was the only car flying a flag coming down I-75 to my workplace. There were none in the parking lot at work either. Let’s never forget folks. That flag is our strength and our memorial.

By Jessica

September 11, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

I was a senior in high school and remember Sept 11, 2001 like it was yesterday. My heart goes out to everyone that lost loved ones on that tragic day. It is a day that will never be forgotten. Today my thoughts and prayers are with the family of Marine Lance Cpl Stephen Johnson who died in action on October 8th 2006 in Iraq. He was defending our freedom and doing what he was trained to do. All of the men and women that have given their lives since 9-11-01 have not done so invaine, they have done it with HONOR and COURAGE. We as Americans owe them our support and respect for the sacrifice that they have made for us!

By Proud American

September 11, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

All Americans should stop and reflect on how great it is to be an American. The sacrifices our fore fathers and mothers made,just think if George Washington and all the the other Patriots had given up, if they had not stayed the course, we would be under British rule today.If Abraham Lincoln had not stayed the course we would not be the great nation we are today but we would be two seperate nations. If our military had not fought with dogged determination and all the women had not worked in the factories and plants and all Americans had not come togather as one we would probably be speaking Japanese and or German. If we had not had great leaders like John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan who new we had to be strong, that if we did cowar to our enemies we great nation would fall.

I ask all Americans to look back at why we are the greatest nation and remember all who has served and those who have been victims of terrorism and foriegn aggression.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

By SB

September 11, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

It was a very tragic day, with so much heartache all on the same day. I believe the event should be remembered, however, a ceremony of the events very year is not neccessary. Tragic events happen everyday, though not to that extent. Time to let go alittle bit.

By Robin

September 11, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

GaLiberal, please remember that you have the freedom to burn the American flag because of our troops and the blood that has been shed. I only have one suggestion - please wrap yourself in it first… and if you’re running low on matches or fuel, then let me know and I’ll make sure you have plenty!

By Hasell Brown

September 11, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

I have a perspective that not too many people here would have about 9/11: I was employed at United Airlines on that day!! That infamous day not only changed the way we live, but the way we are viewed in the world. The good will that the USA had on that day was summarily wasted in the pursuit of issues not related to the capture of those who were responsible for this calamity. Politically…the nation initially galvanized….but summarily became balkanized because of the policies of our government. What I hope is that SOMEHOW, this nation unites towards the RIGHT purposes…..eliminate the name-calling and fear-mongering, and strive towards a NEW American vision.

By Hellinahandbasket

September 11, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

To our friends & loved ones who died on that terrible day, we will never forget. And to my two son’s and their fellow soldiers who are fighting against the terrorists overseas so we won’t have to fight them here. We think of you all daily, we pray for peace, your safety and come home soon. And for both, we miss you.

By EMM

September 11, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

I agree with SB. Although 9/11 was very tragic, it is tome to move on. I suggest we pray and send care packages to our troops that are in Iraq and the surrounding areas fighting for our freedom. Pray for the troops families as well. We can’t change the past, but we can definitely impact our future. This day should remind us of how precious life is. Let’s reach out to those that we know are in need, i.e. babysitting for a tired single parent, running errands for an elderly person. God Bless the U.S.

By EMM

September 11, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

I agree with SB. Although 9/11 was very tragic, it is time to move on. I suggest we pray and send care packages to our troops that are in Iraq and the surrounding areas fighting for our freedom. Pray for the troops families as well. We can’t change the past, but we can definitely impact our future. This day should remind us of how precious life is. Let’s reach out to those that we know are in need, i.e. babysitting for a tired single parent, running errands for an elderly person. God Bless the U.S.

By Voice of Reason

September 11, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

My feeling is this is not about bin Laden, Bush, Republicans, Democrats, mistakes made or opportunities missed. 9/11 is about a group of terrorists so filled with hate they would attack others without provocation based soley on the fact we are different. The terrorists alone are to blame, no one else, place the blame and responsibility where it is due, quit using scapegoats and ignoring the real problem. We lost too many innocents on 9/11 to disrespect them by blaming one man who was only in office 8 months, or blaming the reactions to that terrible day from emergency crews, politicians etc. they are just people like you and I and we ALL were unprepared, we ALL were in shock. The problem is with this nation is we pull together for about a month after but then the finger pointing, conspiracy theories and stupidity starts and we fall apart, divided by an evil who must laugh at us turning on each other. I just feel disappointment in my fellow Americans for abandoning this nation for turning against their neighbor because they are of the ‘wrong’ political party. In my mind it appears the enemy didn’t destroy us on 9/11 but in dividing us all they need to do is sit back and watch us destroy ourselves. It is terribly sad what this great nation has come to…no pride, no comraderie…just anger and self loathing and not because of Bush or anyone else but because of our own pettiness and pride.

By Hasell Brown

September 11, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

I have a perspective that not too many people here would have about 9/11: I was employed at United Airlines on that day!! That infamous day not only changed the way we live, but the way we are viewed in the world. The good will that the USA had on that day was summarily wasted in the pursuit of issues not related to the capture of those who were responsible for this calamity. Politically…the nation initially galvanized….but summarily became balkanized because of the policies of our government. What I hope is that SOMEHOW, this nation unites towards the RIGHT purposes…..eliminate the name-calling and fear-mongering, and strive towards a NEW American vision.

By L.Braun

September 11, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

I miss my sons everyday, the gut wrenching pain never leaves and the nightmares are not just when i sleep. I just want to hold them again, I want to see their faces and smiles and not just photos on the wall. I want everyone to stop bickering over politics and everything else and just realize whats truly important. I just want peace

By Preacher

September 11, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement. Hebrews 9:27 What will you die for and what will you leave behind ?

By Leroy

September 11, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

I used to think that I’d vote for the ones that got me the most money in my pocket. But thinking abouts all those little children that was lost their Dad changed my mind.

We need a HERO, not a ZERO

McCain-Palin

By Leroy

September 11, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

I used to think that I’d vote for the ones that got me the most money in my pocket. But thinking abouts all those little children that was lost their Dad changed my mind.

We need a HERO, not a ZERO

McCain-Palin

By travis

September 11, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

We get attacked on 9-11 by Saudis, sponsored by Bin Laden and we retaliate by attacking Sadaam, in Iraq, under the guise of stopping terrorism?

McCain-Palin say we need to stay there maybe 100 more years!

The Republican Party is the reason why Bin Laden is still on the lose.

By Jeff

September 11, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t normally agree with standardized tests, but obviously Georgia ranking last in SAT scores year after year shows its effects on here.

By A

September 11, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Good Bless everyone that lost loved ones that awful day. I don’t think we should relive this every year by having giant memorial services and watching the towers falls twenty times. We aren’t going to forget!!! I’m pretty sure any one of us can tell you exactly what and where we were that day when it happened. I think we are showing the world how much the terrorist affected us that day and it is making us vulnerable. VOTE FOR JIMMY BUFFETT… he’ll do a better job.

By TACP1

September 11, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

9/11 is not just a day like any other, nor is it the first time that America was attacked on it’s own soil. There was another day that many World War II vets will never forget. It is not a day for politics as McCain and Obama are proving to the world right now because they know better. They are putting down they’re differences to mourn the loss of life, during a tragic event, both of them in New York at this very moment. Like our fathers and grandfathers did when the Japanese attacked pearl harbor, we must learn that there is proper response to attack but leave the hatred on the battle field. People may burn a flag but they cannot burn what it symbolizes to so many of us. I am a Combat Veteran and can only say to you “what other country would allow you to burn a flag (express yourself) and still remain free to live as you please”. This is a day to make those who gave they’re lives on 9/11, during the Pearl Harbor Attack, and those serving where ever they may be, proud of us by simply renewing our vows to “treat each other with the respect and dignity in which we would want to be treated regardless, of race, religion, color, creed, sexual origin or preference”. During my 22 years of military service I was taught to practice this and it worked. I made many friends that I have to this day. I also learned not to hate people because of the act of a single person or group. Bin Laden and the Taliban do not speak for the entire Muslim nation. In fact I served side by side a few good Muslims while assigned in the middle east. Just a thought!

By TACP1

September 11, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

9/11 is not just a day like any other, nor is it the first time that America was attacked on it’s own soil. There was another day that many World War II vets will never forget. It is not a day for politics as McCain and Obama are proving to the world right now because they know better. They are putting down they’re differences to mourn the loss of life, during a tragic event, both of them in New York at this very moment. Like our fathers and grandfathers did when the Japanese attacked pearl harbor, we must learn that there is proper response to attack but leave the hatred on the battle field. People may burn a flag but they cannot burn what it symbolizes to so many of us. I am a Combat Veteran and can only say to you “what other country would allow you to burn a flag (express yourself) and still remain free to live as you please”. This is a day to make those who gave they’re lives on 9/11, during the Pearl Harbor Attack, and those serving where ever they may be, proud of us by simply renewing our vows to “treat each other with the respect and dignity in which we would want to be treated regardless, of race, religion, color, creed, sexual origin or preference”. During my 22 years of military service I was taught to practice this and it worked. I made many friends that I have to this day. I also learned not to hate people because of the act of a single person or group. Bin Laden and the Taliban do not speak for the entire Muslim nation. In fact I served side by side a few good Muslims while assigned in the middle east. Just a thought!

By Proud American

September 11, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

This great nation of ours was built on principles, honor, courage. No one of us is above our country, lets remember all who have fallen. I ask all Americans to pray that Barrack Hussien Obama is not elected, lets pray that we elect someone with principals, honor and courage, lets elect John McCain.

By Jeff

September 11, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Pearl Harbor was not a state when the Japanese bombed it, Grampy.

By The Dude

September 11, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

I’m sure it’s a sad day for people that lost friends or family, but is pretty meaningless otherwise.

2.4 million Americans died in 2001. The only difference between those 3000 and the other 2.4 million is the media coverage their deaths received. 40 TV stations weren’t broadcasting the 700,000 people, that died from heart disease, into my living room, constantly, for months.

By Hellbent

September 11, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Proud American; Your little diatribe started off nicely, then you fell into the same thing that everyone else falls into. Your little dig at Barack Obama by mentioning his middle name in a ridiculous attempt to perpetuate the myth that he is a Muslim is pathetic. BTW, the “principles, honor & courage” you mention are hardly anything I would associate with the current regime. They have lied, cheated, stolen and besmirched the reputation of this country, and it is sad that you continue to drink the kool-ade.

By Hellbent

September 11, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Jeff; No, but it was a US Territory just like Guam & Puerto Rico. Semantics my friend. Oh, and I think you owe an apology to “Grampy”.

By WhoCares

September 11, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Mike Lucovich is sick. The AJC has no shame. The only reason people buy this POS paper is to get the Publix penny item coupon.

By Greg

September 11, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

I can believe that after 911 when there was no iraqi citizen on either plane and there was no proof of mass destructive weapons and we are in a recession and this political race has turn into a silly game and no one wants to make the republican party take blame for their actions for the last 8 years come on people its time to wake up this country is in deep trouble

By WhoCares

September 11, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Silly me. I didn’t realize the “current regime” was running. Who is the current regime? Obama and Biden are both part of this pitiful excuse for a congress. Are they the “current regime”?

By Proud American

September 11, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

The weeks and months following 9/11 this nation came togather as one, we all felt the pain the sorrow the anger , we all new that someone wanted to kill Americans and that we all had to stand togather. Barack Hussien Obama had not emerged yet, only once we started to weaken and not stand for our freedom. Drink the kool-ade ?

By alohagator

September 11, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

POLITICS BE DAMNED TODAY !!!

PLEASE SHOW SOME RESPECT FOR JUST ONE DAY !!!

I just watched McCain and Obama together at Ground Zero. They acted like adults today. They were obviously having some sort of reasonable and polite conversation as they walked into the bottom of the WTC site.

Please, Please, Please … For one damn day. Bury your politics and remember who the real enemy is. Al Qaeda is our enemy no matter who is elected in November.

I was in NYC in early November 2001 and remember the smoke still rising off the debris. 18-wheelers were leaving the site every 45-60 seconds. They were all flatbeds loaded with wrecked steel. This was something I will never forget.

Please show some respect just for one day on this blog.

By Hellbent

September 11, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

WhoCares; Do you think before you type?

By kitty

September 11, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

The feelings I have today are the same as 2001. NUKE them all now. My neighbor, Ogonowski was a pilot on one of those planes. He was a family man and a good citizen. I cannot say that for any creature that lives in Afghanistan. Kill them all now.

By TACP1

September 11, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Jeff,

Thank you for the compliment. I am a grandfather at 48 years of age. I find many young people (like yourself and Robin above) are unaware that America was attacked once before, and I was just trying to pay respect to those WWII veterans who lost they’re lives during that attack. Like those on 9/11 I was merely showing respect. So to make it easier for you to see where I am coming from as a grand father,and an American who knows what is and is not considered American soil I present this to you this:

President Franklin D. Roosevelt:

Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that nation, and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in the American island of Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to our secretary of state a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.

And please do not take offense to this because as I said I’ve heard the comment “1st timed attacked on our own soil” and this is offensive to those brave men and women who died during that attack. Not a state until 1959 but certainly our soil in 1947…

By TACP1

September 11, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Jeff,

Thank you for the compliment. I am a grandfather at 48 years of age. I find many young people (like yourself and Robin above) are unaware that America was attacked once before, and I was just trying to pay respect to those WWII veterans who lost they’re lives during that attack. Like those on 9/11 I was merely showing respect. So to make it easier for you to see where I am coming from as a grand father,and an American who knows what is and is not considered American soil I present this to you this:

President Franklin D. Roosevelt:

Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that nation, and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in the American island of Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to our secretary of state a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.

And please do not take offense to this because as I said I’ve heard the comment “1st timed attacked on our own soil” and this is offensive to those brave men and women who died during that attack. Not a state until 1959 but certainly our soil in 1947…

By adrienne

September 11, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

i remember sitting in front of computer at work watching it over and over and in total disbelief. i cried because all these innocent people gone and no one really new why. i creid more when i saw their families holding up their pictures during the search and rescue….

By Voice of Reason

September 11, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

I remember having just received some birthday calls and, while glancing at the TV watching Matt Lauer interviewing some man, he interrupted for word of the first WTC crash. While on the phone, we watched “together” as the second plane hit and said “No accident, this is an attack!” And our country hasn’t been the same since, nor will it be again. Sad and painful day.

Yea, Osama and company jacked up my birthday, but it’s still my birthday today.