There were many sites I wanted to see during our stay in Washington, D.C. this summer. I knew there was too much for us to tackle in one trip, but I was committed to visiting the Pentagon Memorial to those who gave their lives on September 11, 2001.

As we walked from the Metro station to the site of the memorial, my husband endeavored to explain the significance of what we would be seeing to Mim. We’ve had lengthy discussions with Fish about the events of that day and their significance, but had yet to broach the subject with Mim directly.

My husband was educated to be an elementary school teacher. It is definitely the public schools’ loss that he never made it into a classroom of his own. He is a wonderful teacher and he has a great way with kids. As I listened to him explain the crash in terms my son could comprehend, I got watery eyed. In part, it was the ease with which he clearly translated the happenings and in part it was the memory of what happened.

As is his way, Mim quickly followed his father’s explanation with a question. “Did they have to say they were sorry?” A perfect question from a wiggly little boy struggling to learn the rules of this world. It made me smile.

I suppose the immediate answer is yes, we demanded an apology, and thousands of “them” and “us” died pursing “Sorry”.

To the families of those who died that day and the soldiers who gave their lives in the battles that followed. “Sorry” will never be enough.

To all those who lost so much that day I wish you peace.

To the men and women of the military and our public safety personnel and their families, I offer my heartfelt thanks for all that you sacrifice to ensure our safety and our freedoms.

September 11, 2001, we will NEVER forget.