My application to the United States Military Academy was already pending. My parents had always taught me that serving our country was both noble and a family legacy, following the example of my father and other relatives.
The unprovoked attacks on September 11, 2001, only strengthened my resolve to become a soldier and an infantry officer who would lead troops on the battlefield.
Amid the shock, I settled into what became an atypical day as a high school senior. We rotated through our classes as scheduled, but in every room we watched the news coverage — the towers collapsing, the strike on the Pentagon, and the unfolding national tragedy.
Weeks later I received the acceptance I had worked toward for years, and I began preparing for West Point with a heightened sense of purpose. The Class of 2006 was the first since Vietnam to begin studies during wartime. All of our training prepared us to lead troops in combat. I understood clearly that I would deploy and that there was a real chance I might not come home.
A significant, historic event can come without warning, and will usually lead to other significant, unpredictable events.
September 11, 2001 changed my life drastically, as it resulted in September 4, 2008 — my "Alive Day." Realistically, I should not have survived the enemy attack that killed one of my soldiers and left me burning outside my destroyed Humvee on a road in Afghanistan.
But, my life was saved for the purpose of serving others. That is why I am so honored to have the opportunity to lead the National Cemetery Administration where serving others is what we do.
Looking back at the 9-11 attacks, one bright thread still stands out from that dark day: the extraordinary bravery of the first responders who risked everything to save others. Their selfless devotion continues to inspire me. Today, as the Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs, I witness firsthand that same spirit of service in my NCA teammates.
Twenty-five years later, the events of September 11 continue to remind us how essential it is to support those who put their lives on the line to save others: courageous first responders, tireless medical professionals, and the brave men and women of our all-volunteer military.
At NCA we remain fully committed to our mission of caring for our nation's Veterans and their families. They protected us in their service. We owe it to them to be there when the inevitable happens.
Many things have changed since the 9-11 attacks. Looking back 25 years later, we must keep in mind the thousands of people who were killed, the first responders who rescued others, or who died trying, and the brave service members who fought in the Global War on Terror, especially those who gave their lives in combat.
Let us keep these heroes and their families in our thoughts and prayers this September 11th and beyond.
