By Matthew Allen, Trisha Foster, Rebekah McBeth, Brandi McCoy and Jason Vana
Class of 2002

Mahatma Gandhi once said, "When I don't understand something, I reach up and hold God's hand, and we walk together in silence." It is possible that what happened on September 11, 2001, when America was suddenly attacked by terror, will never be understood. One thing is certain, however: no one will forget the innocent victims who were from over eighty different countries, or the brave heroes who risked everything to save them. These heroes were ordinary men and women who did not hang their heads and wonder what had just happened, and they did not sit and wait for an answer for why it occurred. In the midst of all the confusion, mourning, and weeping, these few men and women became unimaginably determined to rise up against all odds. Because of them, the Stars and Stripes did not fall, but was raised in glory. For that one moment in history everything stopped, all eyes were turned upon our symbol of unity and pride.

Before September 11, 2001, New York City, Washington, D.C., and the rural areas of Pennsylvania seemed to be worlds away from Monmouth, Illinois, and even farther away from the community of Monmouth College. However, on that day, space was transcended as areas of the United States considered to be worlds apart transformed into beloved neighbors. Hearing the cries of their neighbors, Monmouth College students chose to respond. One student was called to active military duty, while the rest of the student body answered other calls of active duties. Standing united, they gave blood, sent thank you cards to the firefighters and emergency medical technicians, and contacted family, friends, and acquaintances in each of these areas. The class of 2002 carries the responsibility of commemorating and continuing: with our hearts we shall remember, with our hands we shall change.

Photos from the Service

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Phone: 309-457-2117
Fax: 309-457-2330

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