25 Years After 9/11: Reflections from a Green Beret
It's interesting to think about 9/11.
It reminds me of my first time going to New York City, almost fifteen years after the attacks.
I remember flying into LaGuardia and picking out the landmarks as we approached New York. The Statue of Liberty (and yes, for those who haven't been, it looks smaller than you've imagined), the new One World Trade Center, and identifying where the towers once stood.
It was a strange feeling. Recognizing a place on this Earth that had shaped almost my entire adult life. A place that changed so many things for so many people. And it was my first time ever seeing it.
How 9/11 Shaped the Last 25 Years of My Life
Twenty-five years later, what happened on 9/11 is still a big part of my life.
I spent close to half of my adult life actively involved in the Global War on Terror (GWOT), through several deployments as a Green Beret and as a contractor in support of Special Operations. The remaining portion, I've spent in the veteran nonprofit space.
Some people know that I'm still very involved in veteran work, specifically with Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), among others. Most of what I do happens behind the scenes, but all of it is in support of veterans who have been profoundly affected by the extraordinary amount of combat they've seen.
All of it traces back to that day.
Most Americans will never fully understand the amount of sacrifice that has been made by so many.
Climbing 110 Floors
Last year on 9/11, I did a stair climb representing the 110 floors of the World Trade Center.
I was surrounded by first responders, active duty military, and veterans. It was really special to be surrounded again by so many people who've chosen a life of service to others.
Nobody chooses this work to get rich or land a fancy title. People choose it knowing the hours will be tough, the pay won't be the best, and the work will be challenging. They choose it to serve others.
On 9/11, we watched that put into practice in the hardest way possible, as so many gave their lives so that others could live.
It still happens today. All across America, and overseas with our military.
Honoring First Responders, Military, and Their Families
I want to recognize and honor all of our first responders, our military, and their families, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The families carry so much. That part doesn't get acknowledged enough.
I will never forget.
Spare No Arrows
Much love!
-CT
Chris Thompson
Owner/Operator
KLĒNR
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It's a small thing. But it's one way we can say thank you to the people who still choose to run toward things the rest of us run away from.
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About KLĒNR
KLĒNR makes organic soaps and sundries for men — bar soap, natural deodorant, beard oil, and pomade — free of harmful chemicals and scented only with pure essential oils. Founded by a former Green Beret in College Station, Texas, and made in the USA.
KLĒNR stuff for KLĒNR men.