Patriot Day: A Day to Remember

It may sound trite, but I remember exactly where I was when I first heard something was happening in New York. I was at work, listening to the radio, and at first, I thought it was just some kind of strange broadcast. I couldn’t quite make sense of it. As more people came into the office and the details became clearer, I realized that the world had just changed. How much, I couldn’t begin to fathom.

Growing up on and around military bases in the U.S. and Europe, I always felt safe. That sense of safety ended on 9/11. Suddenly, we saw the truth—how much hate was directed toward us as Americans, and the tragic reality that innocent people on planes, in the Twin Towers, and at the Pentagon were targeted simply for who they were and where they lived.

The mourning and anger began immediately. But alongside the grief, I also witnessed something incredible: the rise of patriotism across our nation. People came together in unity like I had never seen before. Flags waved proudly. Neighbors helped neighbors. And we remembered that, no matter what, we are stronger together.

That’s why I love that this day is called Patriot Day. It’s a day not just of sorrow, but of remembrance and gratitude—for those we lost on that day, for the heroes who ran toward danger, and for the men and women who have since served and sacrificed to protect us.

Today, on September 11th, our nation will pause at 8:46 a.m. EST (7:46 a.m. CDT) for a moment of silence. I encourage you to join in. Take a breath, say a prayer, and remember.

May We Never Forget. 

 

Local Remembrance Events

  • Patriot Day of Remembrance
    The Woodlands Township will host a solemn ceremony on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 7:30 to 8:00 a.m. at the Central Fire Station (9951 Grogan’s Mill Road, The Woodlands, TX 77380). This event will feature the Presentation of Colors by The Woodlands Fire Department Honor Guard, a reading of the Fireman’s Prayer, and the Ringing of the Bell in honor of fallen firefighters. Hello WoodlandsThe Woodlands TownshipWoodlands Online
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  • Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park – Patriot Day Ceremony
    At the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park (1776 Freedom Boulevard, Conroe, TX 77301), there will be a moment of silence and remembrance from 8:30 to 9:00 a.m.