The meaning behind October 7th, 2001?
After 9/11 many of our military men and women responded to ground zero helping in the relief efforts but what some people may not know is that following in the in the wake of the September 11th attacks on this day in 2001, a U.S.-led coalition begins attacks on Taliban-controlled Afghanistan with an intense bombing campaign by American and British forces. Logistical support was provided by other nations including France, Germany, Australia and Canada and, later, troops were provided by the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance rebels. The invasion of Afghanistan was the opening salvo in the United States “war on terrorism” and a response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, this was the start of the initial combat operation.
But the fight is not over.......
We are currently in our 18th year of war, where each day our men and women continue to serve and preserve the freedoms we endure. Not only did we lose 2,977 lives on September 11th, but over 7,000 men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice: with many of our veterans returning from battle and continue to suffer from the physical and psychological wounds.
The focus of this relay is to honor and remember those who perished on 9/11, our Military Men and Women who deployed October 7th, 2001, those lost at war, and those who lost their lives due to the invisible wounds of war. We distribute relay proceeds to charities that provide support and services to those currently serving, Veterans, First Responders, and their Families. In these ways, we recognize the sacrifices they have made for us and we keep our promise that we will Never Forget them.
Click to Learn more about October 7, 2001 and the U.S - led attacks of Afghanistan.