20th ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11
UpdateSeptember 11, 2001 changed our world forever. In addition to the tragic loss of life caused by that day’s horrific terrorist attacks, 9/11 represented a turning point for our society and our identity as a nation. It revealed our vulnerabilities as they existed at that time, while instantly strengthening our resolve and vigilance. In the wake of unspeakable evil, it inspired heroism, selflessness, and the very best qualities of human character. And like all significant historical events, it helped define who we are today.
The memories of that day are forever etched into our minds. Twenty years later, people can still recall exactly where they were and what they were doing when we collectively realized America was under attack. Those who are old enough can also remember what life was like before that day. The contrast of that image and our world today is a vivid reminder that freedom is never free. It is built upon hardship, sacrifice, and the tenacity to adapt and endure.
The far-reaching effects of September 11th and the events it set in motion have impacted countless lives over the past two decades. That impact began with the 2,751 innocent people killed in the initial attacks and the more than 6,000 injured. Thousands more have since died due to health issues directly attributed to the aftermath of the attacks. To date, the War on Terror set in motion by September 11th has added more than 7,000 U.S. service personnel killed in action and over 50,000 wounded in action worldwide. When you consider all the parents, wives, husbands, children, and friends of those directly impacted by 9/11 and the events it initiated, the human toll is staggering.
As the anniversary of 9/11 approaches, we will see and hear the words “we will never forget” a lot. Not forgetting is certainly important but making the effort to actively remember is even better. We encourage you to take the time to remember and honor the lives lost and forever altered. Remember and cherish the quality of life we enjoyed before terrorists changed our world. And remember that the strength, resilience, and vigilance that enabled us to survive one of the darkest chapters of our history will ultimately light the path to a brighter future.
REMEMBERING 9/11
Spyderco InsiderFor Spyderco founders Sal and Gail Glesser, September 11, 2001, was deeply personal. Like all Americans, they were angered and outraged by the brazen terrorist attacks on innocent Americans. However, for Sal—a Brooklyn native—they hit even closer to home.
Sal and Gail immediately leapt into action and began sending Spyderco rescue knives to the first responders searching for survivors in the rubble of the Twin Towers. Their efforts to honor and support 9/11 victims and survivors later led to the Spyderco World Trade Center Knife, created in memory of NYPD Officer and Spyderco enthusiast John D’Allara.
In this video, Sal shares his personal perspective on 9/11 and Spyderco’s subsequent efforts to support first responders and their surviving family members.
One lesser-known aspect of Spyderco’s commitment to honoring the memories of 9/11 victims and survivors is our annual 9/11 pin. Every year, Spyderco cofounder Gail Glesser sources a distinctive 9/11 pin design to commemorate the anniversary of the attacks. This unique pin is distributed to members of the Spyderco Crew and a few select others as a symbolic reminder of both that tragic loss of life and our need to remain eternally vigilant.
May all those who lost their lives as a result of 9/11 and the events it gave rise to rest in peace. May their families and loved ones continue to find the strength to move on without them. And to all those in uniform who served and continue to serve in defense of our freedom, our security, and our way of life, we are forever grateful.