Reflecting at the Flight 93 Memorial: A Poignant Visit on Our May RV Trip
- Dave Abbey
- May 25, 2024
- 2 min read
Hello, fellow travelers and history enthusiasts! We’re excited to share a deeply moving and reflective part of our recent May RV trip with “Large Marge.” After our inspiring visit to Ohiopyle and the iconic Fallingwater estate, we decided to take a meaningful detour to the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
A Brief History of Flight 93
On September 11, 2001, United Airlines Flight 93 was hijacked by terrorists as part of the tragic events of that day. The brave passengers and crew fought back, preventing the hijackers from reaching their intended target. Instead, Flight 93 crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Their heroic actions saved countless lives and became a symbol of courage and sacrifice.
The Flight 93 National Memorial
The Flight 93 National Memorial was established to honor the memory of the passengers and crew who lost their lives. Located in the rolling hills of southern Pennsylvania, this site provides a solemn and peaceful place for reflection and remembrance.
Highlights of the Memorial
Our visit began at the Visitor Center, perched on a hill overlooking the crash site. The center provides a comprehensive and moving narrative of the events of 9/11, with exhibits that include artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia displays. It was an emotional experience, deepening our understanding of the bravery exhibited on that fateful day.
Next, we visited the Tower of Voices, a 93-foot tall structure housing 40 wind chimes, each representing one of the passengers and crew members. As the wind moved through the chimes, it created a hauntingly beautiful sound, serving as a poignant reminder of those who perished. The Tower stands as a symbol of resilience and the enduring spirit of the heroes of Flight 93.
Finally, we made our way to the Memorial Plaza at the crash site. This serene area includes the Wall of Names, where the names of the 40 passengers and crew are inscribed on polished marble panels. The plaza is aligned with the flight path, providing a direct and powerful connection to the final moments of Flight 93. Standing there, we felt a profound sense of respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made.
Why You Should Visit
The Flight 93 Memorial is a not-to-miss attraction, offering a place of reflection, education, and tribute. The free entry ensures that everyone can access this important site and pay their respects. The memorial’s design and the surrounding natural beauty create a tranquil environment for contemplation.
Our visit to the Flight 93 Memorial was a sobering yet uplifting experience. It reminded us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of remembering and honoring those who act selflessly in the face of danger. We highly recommend this visit to anyone traveling through southern Pennsylvania.
Stay tuned for more travel stories and retirement tips from RetiredReinspired!
Safe travels,
Lynn and Dave
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