Americans demonstrated strength after 9-11

Editor:

Sept. 11, 2001 was perhaps the darkest day in our nations history, and yet it provided a reaffirmation of our finest character traits. America is often thought of around the world as arrogant and bellicose.

But following the tragic events of Sept. 11 we showed the quiet strength, dignity, courage, and compassion which form the foundation upon which we continue to build our nation, 226 years after its birth.

Our people bonded as one following that traumatic day. The coming-together was short-lived, but thats not unexpected. Our differences tend to be magnified at times, even more so during a political season. We know that when events dictate, we can and will pull together again.

The USA is the most powerful nation in the history of the world. Arrogant? Bellicose? Maybe at times we do appear to be so, but we remain a fundamentally good and decent people. I wake up each morning proud to be an American.

MSgt. Jim Murrah

United States Air Force (retired)

Martinez