As the fifteen year anniversary of 9/11 approaches on September 11, 2016, the nation prepares to pause and reflect upon that fateful day. While three locations, New York City, Shanksville, Pa., and Washington, D.C., were directly affected by the terrorist attacks, the anniversary again reminds us we are all “United in Memory.” From large cities to small towns, urban sprawl to rural countryside, all Americans witnessed events that changed the course of our nation’s history.
First responders – fire, police, and medical personnel – rose to the occasion with unparalleled acts of bravery and selflessness. Volunteers arrived from across the country. Strangers helped each other cope with the tragedy. Communities shared in the collective shock and grief that was our new reality.
Memorials Honor the Sacrifices of Many
In the years since 2001, memorials have been built to honor and commemorate the lives lost, sacrifices made, and acts of heroism displayed. Located at the World Trade Center site in lower Manhattan, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum serves as the country’s principal institution concerned with exploring the implications of the events of 9/11 and the continued significance of the attack while presenting stories of loss and recovery. Reflecting pools sit within the footprints where the original architectural masterpieces of New York’s skyline once stood.
Managed by the National Park Service, the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pa. includes an outdoor platform offering a commanding view of the crash site in a remote field, while the visitor center uses photos and artifacts to further tell the story of courageous actions taken by passengers aboard Flight 93. Those actions prevented further devastation by thwarting the plane’s flight path toward Washington, D.C.
Damage to the Pentagon was the first significant foreign attack on Washington’s governmental facilities since the city was burned by the British during the War of 1812. Headquarters for the U.S. Department of Defense, renovation of the Pentagon was already underway at the time of the attacks, and the unoccupied offices resulted in fewer casualties. The iconic image of the U.S. flag being lowered over the side of the Pentagon remains a testament to the nation’s resolve.
Fifteen Year Anniversary Commemorative Pin and Coin
In an ongoing effort to honor the memory of those impacted, C. Forbes, Inc. has designed a commemorative Fifteen Year Anniversary lapel pin and challenge coin. The addition of these to our collection of commemorative products continues our commitment to honor the ideal of American resilience. We are honored that “United In Memory” commemorative items are on permanent display at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the Pentagon and the Smithsonian. Please visit our products section if you would like to purchase these items of remembrance.
The design of the four color, antique brass lapel pin includes the Fifteen Year Anniversary date and depicts images of first responders and citizens alike. With U.S. flags unfurled at the sides, the words “United in Memory” remind us of our nation’s fortitude.
The front side of the antique brass challenge coin replicates the design of the lapel pin, while the reverse side displays iconic symbols: the 13-stripe shield, the motto E Pluribus Unum (“Out of Many, One”), and the American Bald Eagle. Dating back to 1782, the shield symbolizes a “chief” (representing Congress) on top, holding together 13 vertical stripes (representing the original 13 states) beneath it. The motto alludes to the union between the two entities, and is grasped in the beak of a bald eagle. “Out of Many, One” resonates deeply with our ongoing remembrance of the losses suffered fifteen years ago.
Please contact us or more information about our products and customization process. Our mission is to design, produce and present quality, custom items that tell your story. We welcome the opportunity to combine your goals with our expertise to properly commemorate your unique anniversary or event.