Flight 93 Remembered, Honored

SHANKSVILLE – Clouds, wind and chill couldn’t keep people away from honoring the 40 people who sacrificed their lives to stop a terrorist attack on United Airlines Flight 93.

Flight 93 was one of four planes hijacked on Sept. 11, 2001. Two of the planes struck the World Trade Center in New York; a third the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. Flight 93 never made it to its intended target due to the actions of its passengers and crew.

“Today we remember their courage and renew our commitment to honor,” said Joanne M. Hanley, superintendent of the Flight 93 National Memorial. “We came here today to honor these heroes.”

Part of the ceremony included the names of the passengers and crews being read. As the names were read, the clouds broke, giving way to the sun.

Gordon W. Felt, president of the Families of Flight 93 and brother of passenger Edward P. Felt, addressed the crowd. He talked about drawing strength from those of Flight 93 and the work that has gone into the memorial.

He noted that he was numbed to realize that 9-11 has become a part of history. Felt said that the transition from an emotional experience to a historical one provides a unique opportunity.

Felt asked how people can encourage younger generations to be inspired by the actions of the passengers and crew of Flight 93.

“By remembering,” he answered.


(Aaron T. Evans)

Pennsylvania Gov. Edward G. Rendell picked up that same issue. Rendell said that some history needs to carry with it the emotion of what made it real.

“It’s a challenge I believe we will meet,” said Rendell.

“The emotions that are here year after year will never fade,” stated Rendell.

The governor also introduced one of the other speakers.

“He sacrificed much in the service of his country,” said Rendell. “Just like these 40 people.”

Republican Presidential candidate Sen. John McCain then took the stage.

“No American should forget the heroism that took place above these skies,” said McCain.

McCain added that the only way to honor the crew and passengers of Flight 93 is to be as good an American as there were.



(Aaron T. Evans)