September 11th, 2001: 24 Years On - We Reflect and Vow to Never Forget

On this somber day, we remember the victims of such atrocious and abhorrent acts of terrorism. It is 24 years to the day of the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and the attempted attack on another target but for the victims of United Airlines Flight 93 who bravely overpowered its hijackers and crashed the aircraft in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.  

In week 2 of the 2001 NFL season, the New England Patriots played the New York Jets, and Foxborough Stadium was an example of what America should be, two opposing fanbases uniting in grief, outrage, and disbelief of what had occurred only days before. It spread belief and hope that no matter how dark things seemed, the country and its people could overcome it. 

The stadium was filled with people with flags, banners, plenty of red, white, and blue color. It was a moment that captured the nation's resilience and togetherness. 

The Patriots were brought more closely together through OL Joe Andruzzi. Andruzzi's three brothers Billy Jr., Jimmy, and Marc Andruzzi, who were members of the New York City Fire Department that responded to the atrocity on September 11th, 2001 and undoubtedly saved many lives. This proved to many fans of the sport that, while it is vastly important to millions on Sundays, there are far more important aspects of life. Joe's place on the Patriots linked the bridge between football and the human factor of tragedies. 

Joe continues to be a stand up member of our community and now runs a charitable organization that aims to help cancer sufferers with financial aid for medical bills, continuing his family's noble vocations. 

Poignant moments such as the flyover, a minutes silence, a salute to servicemembers are a subtle but moving reminder and reflection of gratitude, appreciation, and hope.  The 24th anniversary is not just another date on the calendar. It's a reminder that even through immense grief and sorrow that we can persevere and get through it while standing tall. On this day, we remember all of those who sadly lost their lives, and their loved ones left behind.