Images from the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 are some of the most powerful in history. Among the harrowing and destructive photos are photos of hope and a country uniting.

Those images help us to never forget 9/11 and they help tell the story for those who may not have been alive or old enough to remember.

In the featured photo, taken by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kilho Park, Machinist's Mate 1st Class John J. Matthews, selected for promotion to chief petty officer, is seen presenting Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Ismayda Acquie a flag during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony in the hangar bay aboard the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in 2010. Acquie's father, Police Officer Jay Ruiz, passed away in the attacks, yet nine years later when this image was captured, the emotions for Acquie were still raw as ever. It's images like this that help us to never forget and help us to realize the impact that 9/11 had on the lives of many.

"This picture reminds me that the victims of 9/11 spread generations," says Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class James Ralph, a Sailor serving aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Kidd (DDG 100). "The victims weren't just people who died from the attacks. It was their families and the people who helped afterwards and there is a ripple from there."

That ripple effect spread from events in three separate states, to a country, and internationally. Its effect was felt mentally and emotionally. According to "people who viewed more television images in the seven days after Sept. 11 had more probable PTSD" (Ahern, 2004). Emotionally, the depth is immeasurable.

"Seeing pictures like this still pulls at the heartstrings," says Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Jhontea Nehls. "It is a reminder that life is precious and was just ripped away that day."

Life and liberty are, indeed precious, and now, Sept. 11 is a reminder of the lives lost, and of a nation, united. This year marks the 16th reminder since 2,996 lives were lost; 2,996 precious lives. Remember those lives this year and the many years to come. Never forget.

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