Across the road from the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pa., a new tribute rises beneath the same open skies where 40 passengers and crew members fought back against terrorists on September 11, 2001. Patriot Memorial Park, home to the Global War on Terrorism Memorial, honors the men and women who carried that fight forward in the decades that followed.
The memorial recognizes all-volunteer service members and their families who have borne the burdens of America’s longest conflict. Since 2001, more than 7,000 have given their lives in Iraq, Afghanistan, and related operations worldwide. Millions more have deployed—many multiple times—answering the call of duty, honor, and country.
At the heart of the site is the Field of Heroes Flag Display, where each flag represents a fallen father, mother, son, or daughter. The sweeping vista serves as both a visual reminder of sacrifice and a place of solace for Gold Star families who come to reflect and remember.
Organizers chose this location to connect the courage of Flight 93’s passengers with that of the service men and women who followed in their footsteps. “Our Global War on Terrorism service members have been inspired by them,” the Patriot Park Foundation notes. “They continued the battle to protect our way of life.”
For families like that of wounded veteran Phillip B., the site carries deep meaning. His wife, Regina, wrote, “I don’t live with his injury, and I see him suffer daily, but I thank God for bringing him home… I hate what this day took away, but I focus on what we do have.”
Patriot Memorial Park invites Americans to remember, reflect, and serve—fulfilling President John F. Kennedy’s call: “My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”