Tuesday, September 11, 2001, was a pivotal day for America and the world. From the horror of the September 11 attacks has grown a fierce resolve that terrorism may wound, but will never defeat us. The global community has united with the American people to battle against the insanity that we have endured and we, as Americans and citizens of the world, will prevail over this catastrophic day.

For all, but particularly for those of us who lost loved ones in the attacks on the Pentagon, the World Trade Center, and at Shanksville, September 11 was a day of immeasurable, profound loss and sorrow. As family members of those lost in the attack on the Pentagon, we ask that you search your souls and envision a memorial that inspires visitors to contemplate what the attack means to them personally, to us as family members, to the community, to the country, and to the world.

Visitors should comprehend that our loved ones were murdered simply because they were living and working in, and enjoying the benefits of, a free society. The memorial should instill the ideas that patriotism is a moral duty, that freedom comes at a price, and that the victims of this attack have paid the ultimate price. Indeed, the memorial should bring an understanding that all of us have paid severely. Our loved ones' deaths have ended the ripple effect of their lives touching many others through the universe; their loss has created an incalculable emptiness.

We challenge you to create a memorial that translates this terrible tragedy into a place of solace, peace, and healing.