STATE SENATOR KOLKHORST ADRESSES SEPTEMBER 11TH ANNIVERSARY
Texas State Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst of Brenham, Saturday, issued a statement on the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attack on the Unites States.
This is a day of remembrance and a reminder of our nation’s strength. We remember vividly the images we saw on television and the fear we felt 20 years ago. America faced its most lethal attack on our soil that day, but we also witnessed great bravery and heroism.
So many of our communities in Senate District 18 are remembering this day by honoring our first responders — the men and women who never hesitate to run toward danger to save us — and our military who selflessly defend the Constitution of the United States against foreign and domestic enemies.
Yes, today we reflect on what it means to be an American, living in the land of the free and home of the brave.
On this day, I give special thanks for my friend and colleague, Lt. Col. (Ret) Brian Birdwell who serves as the State Senator for District 22.
On September 11, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 77 was crashed just yards away from his second floor Pentagon office, Brian was critically wounded and severely burned. Of the burns that covered more than 60 percent of his body, nearly half were third degree in severity. Today, following 39 operations, months of hospitalization and numerous skin grafts, Brian has made a miraculous recovery. Despite physical limitations, he testifies not only to his physical healing, but the ultimate miracle of grace through Christ. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received that day. Upon retirement in July 2004, he was awarded the Legion of Merit.
It is nothing but an honor to listen to him as he explains the events of that day. During our last special session, Senator Birdwell and some of our colleagues were at dinner after a long day of work. We began talking about 9/11. He showed me a photo of the burning building and pointed to where he was when AA Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon. Truly, it is a miracle from God that Brian is still with us today. He is one of the most fundamentally sound constitutionalist's that serves in our Legislature... and a hero for our nation.
Here is one of many recent news story about Senator Birdwell...please take five minutes to listen. It will touch your soul.
Two decades later, we remember and grieve those who gave their lives and did not make it.
But, we also remember all of the brave men and women who have served our country in the past 246 years. Our men and women in uniform are the reason we could answer the call after September 11.
And today as we face new challenges, let our shared patriotism and love of country guide our way as we battle forces that seek to destroy us. We are the greatest nation in the world, and the events of September 11 should be a reminder not of our weakness, but of our fortitude.
God Bless each of you and may God Continue to Bless America.