How the Heroic Response to 9/11 Went Awry

Reflecting on the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the article underscores the initial wave of national unity and heroism that defined the response. Despite this, it highlights how the ensuing War on Terror diverged from the spirit of those early days, leading to disillusionment and cynicism over time. This retrospective serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the values of compassion and unity in the face of tragedy, even as the course of national policy shifts. The article emphasizes that while the initial response was marked by extraordinary bravery, the long-term approach has often strayed from the principles that originally united the nation.