On this solemn day, we pause to reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, a day that forever changed our country and the world that we know. It’s hard to believe that 23 years have passed since that fateful morning, yet the images, the emotions, and the sense of loss remain vivid in our collective memory.

We remember the nearly 3,000 innocent lives taken in the attacks—people going about their daily routines, unaware of the tragedy that would unfold. We also honor the extraordinary courage of the first responders who ran toward danger, knowing that the cost might be their own lives. Their selflessness and bravery symbolize the best of who we are as a nation.

For many of us, 9/11 was a turning point, not just in terms of national security, but in the way we understand community, service, and sacrifice. The ripples of that day are felt deeply in our veteran community. Thousands of men and women, moved by a profound sense of duty, stepped forward in the days, months, and years following the attacks to serve in the armed forces. Many of them deployed to unfamiliar and hostile environments, driven by the desire to protect our country and uphold the freedoms we cherish.

Personally, as a Marine Corp Veteran and father of two children who currently serve in the military, 9/11 carries special weight. It shaped the path for a new generation of service members. Their commitment mirrors the same courage and dedication shown by those who served before them.

At Clear Path for Veterans New England, our mission is to ensure that the men and women who served—those who answered the call in the wake of 9/11 and beyond—are cared for and supported. Many of these veterans bear visible and invisible scars, and it’s our duty to stand beside them, just as they stood for us. As someone who has personally navigated the complexities of the VA system as a homeless veteran, I understand how crucial it is to have access to resources, community, and support networks.

On this day of remembrance, I encourage all of us to not only honor the memory of those we lost, but to take action in their name. Whether it’s by supporting veterans, volunteering in our communities, or simply reaching out to someone who may be struggling, let us use this anniversary to foster unity, resilience, and compassion.

Let us never forget the lives we lost, the families forever changed, and the heroes who stepped forward in our darkest hour. As we remember, we renew our commitment to building a future that honors their legacy—a future defined by service, hope, and unwavering support for those who continue to defend our freedom.

In remembrance and with gratitude,

Jason Gilbert

CEO, Clear Path for Veterans New England