| SEPTEMBER 11: A time to remember sacrifice and heroism | |||||||
| by BUDDY AMATO | |||||||
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I remember September 11th, 2001 I'll always remember that day, like so many people around the country and the world. Good people were murdered by a bunch of filthy terrorists. And now, two years after that day, people still miss those who passed on, with the exception of the terrorists(No one misses them). I know people who died, I know their families. My heart goes out to them on this terrible anniversary. In November 2001, a monument honoring the victims of 9/11, and the heroes who did so much to save lives(Sometimes, at the cost of their own)was dedicated on the property of my Dojo, on Palmer Ave. in Hazlet. It was a very difficult dedication ceremony, because when it took place, the wounds of the tragedy were still all too fresh. But, it has been a touchstone for me since it was put up. It is a graphic reminder of something I think should not be forgotten. I respect the views of everyone. there are so many people of Arab descent who came to the United States to live a better life. And there remains some people who believe there is a stigma about being Arab. I think thats cruel and unfair though, because the extremist element behind terrorism is very small, while most Arab-Americans, or Arabs in general just want to lead their lives and take care of their familys. I think the world changed a lot after September 11th. I don't know if there's anyone who wasn't touched in some way about the tragedy. Today, America is involved in fighting terrorism around the world. So, my thoughts also go to those who laid down their lives for our freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq. It doesn't matter what people thing of the wars. Young people fighting for their country is not controversial: It is heroic. And they deserve to be credited for their courage and their service to our country. These kids. which is what these young soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines are, have taken the fight for freedom right on their own shoulders. God bless them for what they are doing, and God bless their families, many of who live in Monmouth County and read this column. If your are a family member of someone who has served, or is serving at home or around the world, I want your to know that I thank you. My family thanks you. And every good American in this country thanks you, and your family members for defending this country! Grandmaster Buddy Amato operates Amato's Karate and Weapons Academy, 589 Palmer Avenue, West Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom. For more information, call (732) 671-9555.
Copyright Buddy Amato Amato's Goju-ryu Karate, Nunchaku, Bo-staff, Aikido, Sword, Kendo, Sais, Kick-boxing, Tai-Chi and more 589 Palmer Ave, Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom, NJ 07734 (732) 671-9555 |
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