Never forget

The memories of what occurred on 911 seventeen years ago evoke multiple images and emotions for most people living in the United States. However, the horrific attacks were not lost among the other nations in the world. Following this worst disaster in our history where almost 3,000 people were killed and around 20,000 injured, other nations stepped forth to create memorials to commemorate those who lost their lives.

Ninety-two countries shared in our grief and constructed memorials. Among them are the United Kingdom (67), The Dominican Republic (47), India (41), South Korea (28), Canada (24), Japan (24), Colombia (17), Mexico (16), Jamaica (16), Philippines (16), Germany (11) and Australia (11). There were 2,624 memorials created in the United States. Remembering those who died and suffered, President George W. Bush declared, "We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember...."

While it is normal to remember the heroes of 911, we also must never forget the innocent people who were killed or injured. They were just there doing their jobs when the airplane (the scene we watched and will never forget) plowed into their building. Families and loved ones were literally blown apart. As so many reflected during the 17th year memorial services, we must never forget!

We also cannot forget the men and women who gave their lives as first responders trying to save others. The people in that category are too numerous to mention individually here, but we remember them. Somewhat unknown, we may also remember the tremendous outpouring of support from groups all across our country, thousands of whom converged upon the disaster area to help. There were so many volunteers that the Red Cross (and other groups) had to turn them away because there was no food and water, no shelter and no support for them. While their intentions were wonderful, their presence created a problem.

Having worked with law enforcement for more than 25 years, my heart goes out to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund has just issued a new 2018 mid-year fatality report with preliminary data through June 30th which lists 73 line-of-duty deaths during the first half of this year. That is a seven percent increase over the same period last year. Of these 73 officers, 31 were killed in firearms-related incidents, 27 in traffic-related incidents, and 15 died due to other issues such as job-related illnesses.

Firearms-related fatalities are significant. Of the 31 fatalities in 2018, eight occurred during an attempt to arrest a suspect, six while responding to domestic disturbances, and three the result of ambushes. There also were 27 traffic-related fatalities during the first half of 2018. Florida led the nation in officer fatalities with seven deaths; New York, North Carolina and Texas each losing four officers; and California, Kentucky, Ohio and South Carolina each losing three officers.

There are over 900,000 men and women who serve in law enforcement in our country working hard to keep us safe. Too many give their lives while protecting us while we work, play and vacation. Although I do not have the statistics concerning our firefighters, they also need to be praised for the great work they do, especially during disasters. During times of trouble, it's great to know there is someone you can call for help.

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Robert Box is the former chaplain for the Bella Vista Police Department and is currently the fire department chaplain. Opinions expressed are those of the author.