DRI Community,
Today is the 20th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and flight 93 that crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The attacks killed nearly 3,000 people, of which more than 400 were police officers, firefighters and first responders.
For many of us, the moment the first plane hit the twin towers became an enduring and tragic memory.
When I reflect upon 9/11, the thing that stands out most for me is how our country came together. We united to support and care for one another. On that terrible day in 2001, we learned the meaning of the word United. During these past 18 months of seemingly endless challenges associated with the COVID pandemic, recalling how we responded after 9/11 may remind us of what it means for our country to come together and thoughtfully confront the things that may divide or destroy us.
As the CEO of DRI, I am reminded of the power of the word United on a regular basis. Whether it be DRI members supporting each other after a natural disaster, a person to lean on after a personal loss or just a simple smile from one member to another. DRI is about community, and I am humbled by how often DRI members put the needs of others before their own.
As we reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, I hope DRI members not only reflect on the tragedy and the brave souls that were lost that day, but that we also remember how united we are as a community.
Dean Martinez
Dean Martinez
CEO