Reflecting on September 11th: 23 Years Later

As we mark the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Americans continue to grapple with the deep emotional scars left by that day. Colonel Rob Maness, a retired officer with more than 32 years of military service, shared his personal experience and reflections during a recent broadcast. Having served in the Pentagon during the attacks, he offered a poignant reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and unyielding resolve that Americans displayed on that fateful day.

A Day of Shock and Heroism

On the morning of September 11, 2001, Col. Maness’s wife, like many others, was gripped by fear upon learning the Pentagon had been hit. As the hours unfolded, a massive rescue and recovery operation took place. Col. Maness recalled how about 200 individuals, including himself, formed teams to venture back into the Pentagon, attempting to assess the devastation and assist in any way they could. The reality of the loss became overwhelmingly clear as the day wore on.

His wife's emotional recollections remain raw even today. She vividly described the moment when Col. Maness finally returned home, carrying with him the physical and emotional weight of the day. The sight and smell of his clothes are etched in her memory—a sensory reminder of the tragedy they lived through.

Never Forget: The American Spirit

Maness reflects with pride on how Americans responded in the wake of the attacks. Whether in uniform or not, he observed a nation unified by a common desire to help, to stand up, and to fight for their country. This day, marked by immeasurable loss, also highlighted the best of what it means to be American: resilience, solidarity, and the willingness to go to the sound of danger when others flee.

A Troubling Present: New Forms of Division

In the present day, Col. Maness expresses concern over a growing disconnect in the collective memory and meaning of September 11. In his broadcast, he lamented how some Americans, particularly younger generations, now march in the streets in support of terrorist groups like Hamas. To him, this signals a failure in leadership and education, leading to dangerous ideological shifts that sympathize with America’s enemies.

Referencing recent global events, Col. Maness highlighted the horrific attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which he described as "war crimes" worse than those of 9/11. He questioned why there are American protesters who, ignorant of history or indoctrinated by anti-American ideologies, would rally in support of such groups. For him, this reflects not just a moral crisis but an existential threat to the country's values and security.

Holding the Government Accountable

Col. Maness also spoke about his dissatisfaction with the current U.S. administration’s response to these challenges. He strongly criticized President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for what he sees as weak and indecisive policies, particularly in their approach to supporting Israel and combating terrorism. He believes their failure to stand firmly with Israel has emboldened enemies worldwide, from Afghanistan to the Middle East and even within America's own borders.

During his discussion with political commentator David Pollack, Col. Maness voiced concerns over how this perceived fecklessness has left America more vulnerable and divided than ever before. David Pollack shared similar sentiments, noting that the left has sown seeds of anger and rebellion within the youth, eroding respect for American history, values, and institutions.

A Call to Action

In closing, both Col. Maness and David Pollack underscored the need for a return to strength, unity, and patriotism. Col. Maness called for Americans to remember the sacrifices made not only on September 11, but also in the years of military conflict that followed. He emphasized the importance of teaching younger generations the true meaning of that day and ensuring that the country never forgets the lessons learned through the blood and tears of its people.

As America faces new threats—both foreign and domestic— Col. Maness and others like him continue to remind us that the spirit of 9/11, the determination to protect and preserve the nation, must not fade with time. It is a legacy that demands vigilance, respect, and unwavering resolve.