by Jimmy Lee ’20
Runners begin the 5k run in Allentown to honor those fallen on September 11th.
Fifteen years ago, the September 11th terrorist attacks marked one of the most horrific tragedies faced by the United States, one that forever changed the nation. On the anniversary each year, events are held throughout the country to honor those heroes who lost their lives on 9/11, including a 5K run held by Travis Manion Foundation. Held in 54 different communities across the globe, the “9/11 Heroes Run” event totaled 30,000 participants worldwide.
The Travis Manion Foundation was founded by the family of Travis Manion, a soldier who lost his life while serving in Iraq in 2007. In regards to his voluntary deployment, Manion said the following words, “If not me, then who?” This question is now the foundation of the organization.
“The tragic events of September 11th tore through our families and communities, but it did not break our spirit. It only fortified our national bonds and strengthened our resolve. We recognize the strength of character,” says Ryan Manion Borek, the president of the Travis Manion Foundation.
Locally, Parkland High School hosted the Heroes Run, where one hundred fifty people, including twelve participants from Wyoming Seminary, gathered to honor those fallen heroes. At this race, it didn’t matter how fast each participant ran; they finished the run to thank those who entered the Twin Towers to help while others escaped, those who put others’ lives before their own, those who brought freedom to this nation, and others who make this country great.
Running a 5K may seem insignificant when compared to what our military members, first responders, and volunteers do. These people spend hundreds and thousands of hours or even their entire life to serve their country. But at least once a year, participants can gather in remembrance of these heroes’ actions, and to thank them for ensuring the liberties we have today.
“We remember, and we will never forget. We honor the courage of those who put themselves in harm’s way to save people they never knew,” said Barack Obama in his speech on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. “We come together in prayer and in gratitude for the strength that has fortified us across these 15 years. And we renew the love and the faith that binds us together as one American family. ”