On the eve of the 12th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks, President Obama called on Americans to honor those killed that day by building a nation worthy of their memories. “As we mark the anniversary of Sept. 11, I invite all Americans to observe a National Day of Service and Remembrance by uniting in the same extraordinary way we came together after the attacks,” he stated. “Like the Americans who chose compassion when confronted with cruelty, we can show our love for one another by devoting our time and talents to those in need,” he said. (Obama proclamation) (See also: Airmen of 9/11 from Air Force Magazine’s 2011 archive.)
When Airmen eject, the mission is clear: America leaves no warrior behind. Airmen are trained to survive, evade, resist, and escape the enemy, and everyone from ground crew to rescue personnel and commanders are committed to doing everything necessary—and possible—to bring downed Airmen home.