Connie Lawn’s Column – Another 9/11 Passes

The United States has survived another anniversary of the horrific attacks against America, eight years ago. Many countries endure unjust horror, but it always hurts more when it hits close to home. These attacks, eight years ago, were ruthless, brutal, and unnecessary. At least 3,000 people died, and they were citizens of many countries. The dead and maimed included victims of various races and religions.

Reliving the events of 9/11 brought many here to a state of rage and despair. I found it impossible to watch the horrible footage of the explosions without crying. The graphic scenes of desperate people jumping from the World Trade Center were especially personal to me. My Father had his office on the 93rd floor of the World Trade Center. I miss him, but am glad he died one year before the attacks. My nephew, a financial advisor, lost about 700 friends inside the Towers. Again, I thank God he was not there that day.

But, I join millions who grieve for the victims in New York, the Pentagon, Shanksville Pennsylvania (where the passengers crashed the plane heading towards the Capitol), and the passengers on the planes. Some of them had time to make cell phone calls to their loved ones, who then heard the screams and terrible sounds before impact.

Why did this have to happen? I know America is far from perfect, and has made many mistakes, in foreign and domestic policy. But the attacks were unnecessary. Many in this country are also wondering why the United States, and other countries, are engaged in military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Iraq is drawing down, but President Obama may try to authorize several thousand more troops to Afghanistan. He is fighting opposition from several quarters – liberal Democrats and conservative Republicans. The rage is there, against Al Qaeda and others who want to destroy America. But, a growing number here are asking about the use of drones and missiles, rather than boots on the ground. Sadly, more civilians might die that way, but they are already suffering and dying.

All this confusion and sadness were reflected in the 9/11 Memorial services in New York, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The names of the victims were read by those who love and miss them. Moments of silence were observed. Then, fire bells were rung, and patriotic songs were sung. Politicians, from President Obama on down, delivered powerful speeches and tried to comfort the grieving, as best they could.

The weather was cold and rainy, which fit the occasion. It was far different than the beautiful sunny day eight years ago, when the attacks took place. The day proceeded peacefully, and we are all thankful there were no more attacks. There was some tension in the morning, when the Coast Guard staged a realistic training exercise, on the Potomac River, near the Pentagon Memorial Ceremony. For about two hours, many in the media reported a terrorist attack had been thwarted. The Coast Guard says it exercises each day. But officials sheepishly admit, they might have passed up on such an exercise at that time and place!

So this 9/11 is over. Few people are betting the world will be more peaceful, when the next such anniversary is observed.

Connie Lawn has a passionate love for NZ. She worked for Radio New Zealand for 20 years, and then for Radio Live for a few years. Connie has covered the White House and the world since 1968. Her other passion is skiing, and she calls herself "the skiing White House reporter." Her ski stories are on dcski.com and other outlets. Connie is also heard on thousands of radio stations, but firmly believes the internet is the future. She can be reached atconnie@scoop.co.nz

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