The Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, PA has done a masterful job in preserving the memories of the 40 heroes aboard United Flight 93. The courage and determination displayed by those brave people is captured and presented in a most captivating and respectful way. Working together with the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation and the family members of the heroes, the Friends of Flight 93 organization continues to add remembrances which transform the landscape of this National Memorial and reminds all who visit what a special place the site is and continues to remind visitors of the heroism of the 40 as well as educating us about who those people were. A common field became a field of honor forever. You should visit this special place! You won't be the same and your appreciation for these heroes and our freedoms will most certainly deepen.
First, let me say that I like the whole idea of the Flight 93 Memorial. These passengers were the only ones to recognize in-flight the situation they were in, and they sacrificed everything to stop the ruthless plan these hijackers had in mind. To me, that deserves a lasting memorial so that our nation and the world will always remember.
I feel fully linked to Flight 93 and to the Memorial primarily because on that fateful day of 9-11 I, a state government employee, had just travelled to a meeting that was located less than ten miles from what would become the Flight 93 crash site. I did not have the radio on that morning while travelling to the meeting and had no idea of what was happening until I arrived at the meeting site and found other attendees crowded around the television.
The Flight 93 crash happened very shortly after I arrived and, being State officials, our meeting was cancelled and we were declared to be under a security lock-down.
The phone lines were jammed, and as far as people on the outside could see from news reports, our meeting group had been fully consumed by the Flight 93 event. I finally was able to borrow a co-worker's new cellphone and get word to my wife that I was safe.
For security reasons, we were all required to return to our respective headquarters as soon as possible. As such, I immediately headed back, full-speed, to my headquarters - near the State Capitol in Harrisburg - in real fear for what might happen next.
As I say, because of this experience I feel forever connected to Flight 93 and have been faithfully donating to the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial since the beginning.
Thank you for all that you are doing in this worthy cause.
Friends of Flight 93 is amazing! I've never visited the National Memorial (I live in California), but I would love to visit someday. They are my héros. When I think of the sacrifice they made for our country, I just can't comprehend it. Their bravery and courage will forever resonate in my heart. I am glad this organization was formed so we can have a place to reflect and pay our respects. I hope we never, ever forget the brave people of flight 93!
The Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial is a tribute to the 40 passengers and crew that died trying to protect our country and its citizens from terrorists that wanted to sew hatred. Its setting is in beautiful rural Pennsylvania and the memorial structures erected are simple, thoughtful and contemplative, in fitting with the purpose of the memorial. While the organization that supports the Memorial is intent on honoring the fallen heroes of Flight 93, it is also focused on educating our nation's youth on the events of 9/11 and the important lessons we can learn from the passengers and crew of Flight 93. It is a very worthwhile organization deserving of our support.
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Friends of Flight 93 assists the National Park Service in providing a beautiful, contemplative, and inspiring memorial site honoring the crew and passengers of Flight 93. It also seeks to educate school children about Flight 93 by providing funding for on site field trips and online programming for students around the country. The Friends of Flight 93 are ensuring that we always remember what happened and ask ourselves how we can apply in our daily lives the selflessness demonstrated by the heroic crew and passengers on that fateful day .
Being on the Board of Directors of the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial has deeply moved me. It has been such a privilege. This non-profit honors Flight 93's heroes through heartfelt and impactful work, from maintaining and evolving the memorial to organizing beloved international educational programs about our heroes. Supporting this non-profit means honoring the past and inspiring future generations. Our non-profit truly embodies community and remembrance, ensuring the legacy of Flight 93 is never forgotten.
The Friends of Flight 93 group honors the sacrifice and courage of the passengers and crew of Flight 93 by supporting the mission of the Flight 93 National Memorial with volunteers, resources, and civic engagement, so as to inspire all who visit with the Flight 93 story.
This is an outstanding organization who works behind the scenes to ensure the Park, and its story, are supported.
I am a board member - but more importantly, a family member of a Flight 93 hero.
As the years pass since 9/11 (nearly 23), people forget about that day, and the sacrifices made in all 3 locations, but this one most of all.
The Friends group, with their dedication to educational programs, helps with keeping the memory alive.
They judiciously use the funding they receive, to ensure every dollar goes to supporting their mission.
I am proud to be a member of the organization, and a board member
The Flight 93 National Memorial is unlike any other memorial ever created. The selfless actions of the 40 heroic passengers and crew are forever remembered in this incredible place. The Friends of Flight 93 strive to not only honor the 40 heroes but to educate current and future generations of their bravery and courage. The Friends are proud partners with the National Park Service and also seek sustainable ways to embrace environmental stewardship at this priceless location.
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The Friends of Flight 93 are the primary partner of the National Park Service and the Flight 93 National Memorial. Together, the Friends and the NPS are dedicated to ensuring the timeless stories of the 40 heroic passengers and crew aboard Flight 93 are shared to current and future generations. Education is a critical pillar of the Friends' daily focus. The Friends are also the primary fund-raising source for the NPS and Flight 93 National Memorial. The Friends are a passionate group who collaborate with charitable donors, ensuring financial sustainability for the organization and enabling the realization of the organization's mission and vision.
Most history is not living history but largely a trip to the past places and people.
The Flight 93 Memorial is very much present tense history with wives, husbands and children of the 40 passengers and crew still very much with us, still visible and in many cases active with National Park.
United 93 has not been judged just as the last of the four planes to crash on September 11, 2001 but the first return volley in the battle against the terrorists. These 40 likely saved the U.S. Capitol and the lives of people there that morning.
The 2,000-acre Memorial is at once sober and inspiring and people of all ages---those that remember and those that are just learning the history there---and all who come, come away with a lasting impression of what service and patriotism mean.
Whether it's spending time listening on headphones to the desperate recorded calls between family members saying goodbye, the restful Tower of Voices or learning about the individual passengers and crew or taking a stroll through the abundant trail connecting the sites there, the Flight 93 Memorial is a stellar stop. The 30 were game changers and the visit will always resonate, especially each "9-11."
Why I Support Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial
A visit to this field is on my “bucket list”
To walk in that valley in early morning mist
To feel the spirit of those who lifeblood mingled with this sod
Those who remain in our hearts now lie forever in the arms of God
Some passengers charged; the evil ones they rushed
And today our American spirit is still not crushed
While none of them, before that day, I personally knew
They have become, very much, a part of me and you
For the American spirit of resilience, they embodied as one
And within their joined hands was a miracle done
Together in those final moments, all were glory-bound
They gave selflessly, and saved thousands on the ground
Clearly I remember where I was that day
“May we never forget” is the prayer I often pray
Teaching our descendants the significance of that hour
Is my obligation and a small portion I can repay within my power
There were 40 souls that morning to their families lost
And for the rest of us Americans, dearly was the cost
For love of country, they each paid the ultimate sacrifice
Today, so many of us still feel it was too high a price
Yes, 40 people tragically perished on board Flight 93
Yet each one’s name is now hallowed for all eternity
And in their memory may we each march on as one
With love and peace worldwide - until our task is done
Susan L. Tuell
Lake City FL
July 5, 2024
Donna and Courtney are a dedicated team for the Friends of Flight 93. it shows in the events they host and within the memorial as well as educating the youth and adults on the events of September 11 2001.
This memorial is so important to keep alive the memories of the people who sacrificed themselves to save others. It's a beautiful and important spot that should be preserved.
I visited the Flight 93 Memorial in July of 2021 with a friend. She had been there several times and thought I should see it. I was incredibly moved. From the visitor center, to the wall of names and the boulder, from the ranger talk to the Tower of Voices, there was a feeling of reverence and respect. As difficult as it was to remember and relive that day, this facility beautifully memorialized and honored the American heroes that died that day and saved countless lives in the act. I encourage everyone to visit this inspirational memorial.
The Flight 93 Memorial is a special place. As a group of teachers, we annually organize a student field trip. It is amazing to see how that day comes alive as we see it through our students' eyes. From the moment they depart the bus through Park Ranger Gregory Zaborowski's talk, and finally walking the memorial grounds, our students are capitavited and their inquisitiveness is exhibited through more questions and their future research. These emotions are experienced by first timers and many timers because of the hard work and dedication of the staff and foundation at the Flight 93 Memorial.
Visiting the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial was a deeply moving and educational experience. Situated in Shanksville, PA, this memorial stands as a poignant tribute to commemorate the passengers on flight 93. It serves not only as a place of rememberence but also as a powerful reminder of the impact of 911. The memorial is easily accessible by car, with clear signage directing visitors to the site. There is ample parking available, and the pathways are well-maintained, making it accessible for visitors of all abilities. The design of the memorial is both solemn and inspiring. The memorial provides extensive information about 911, and these educational resources are well-presented and accessible, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of the historical significance and the personal stories behind the memorial. Walking through the memorial, I felt a profound sense of emotion. The atmosphere is one of quiet contemplation, encouraging visitors to reflect on the sacrifices and experiences of those commemorated. Overall, my visit to Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial was deeply enriching experience. I highly recommend a visit to anyone interested in history, culture, etc., as it offers a unique and impactful opportunity to connect.
The "Friends" are doing a great job preserving the memory of these great heroes and also educating the nation about what happened, especially for younger generations. They are also respecting and honoring this sacred ground for future generations.
Todd Beamer is a hero. He and others on the plane try to stop the terrorist from going to their destinations but it end up going to the ground anyways but Todd Beamer‘s last words were OK. Are you ready let’s roll and those words will end up staying with me for a very long time because I end up saying it when I get ready, I miss you, Todd Beamer you’re always gonna be in my heart rest in peace
I was an early donor and I've tried to support this fine organization regularly. As a former vice president for development, I greatly appreciate the respectful way they treat donors and conduct their solicitations. Never am I made to feel pressured and all gifts are promptly, kindly and professionally acknowledged.
I retired from the U.S. Army in 1994 and currently live north of Pittsburgh, PA. When 9/11 happened I took it personally. Twenty-Four years of my life were dedicated to protecting the United States and the freedoms we have the privilege of enjoying. In Oct 2001 I travelled to Shanksville, PA and Washington DC. I had to see those sights for myself. In Shanksville the closest I could get to the crash sight was where all the news trucks were. I have watched the Flight 93 Memorial's growth during a countless number of visits, including twice on the 9/11 anniversary. I find a sense of peace when I visit. We owe a deep debt to the courageous crew and passengers of Flight 93. I appreciate the opportunity to support the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial.
I thought I understood the awfulness of the hijacking and the sacrifices of the passengers after 9/11. But last year my sister and I made the drive from Maryland to the Flight 93 Memorial. It took me by surprise! The way the Memorial is structured really gives a visitor a clear picture of what happened that awful day. The Museum was very affecting and really showcased the individual stories and the flat out bravery of the passengers. It was sad and awesome at the same time. I will never forget the Carillon of Voices and the day I spent at Flight 93 Memorial. I wish every American could get to see it. Incredible job by all involved in the construction and planning.
We first visited this site when there was only a small temporary shelter. The last time we visited, I was amazed to see the building, the walkway and memorial stones. It's always touching and a testament to the brave souls on Flight 93.
As a tour planner for motorcoach groups I have brought thousands of travelers to the Flight 93 National Memorial. On every visit I see people greatly moved by their experiences here. As many times as I myself have been here, I, too am always touched by the serenity, beauty, moving accounts and the hearts of the Heroes. No one should miss the opportunity to visit and pay your respects at the Flight 93 National Memorial.
Recently I sent $200 to Flight 93, $100 of which was in memory of Rudy Klein. I requested that his family would be notified of this donation. I sent their address. The other $100 was for trees.
I received two duplicate thank you's. Mr. Klein's family never heard from Flight 93. I am extremely disappointed with Flight 93.
Evelyn Godshall
My friend Deora was on UA93. I raised just over $18,000 in her memory towards the Tower of Voices completion. I have been a member of the Friends for years now and it is a wonderful organization. I also organize & host annual 9/11 benefit shows here in San Diego to raise funding for Firefighter Aid and am founder/ captain of Team DEORA for the annual San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb. It’s all about making sure everyone knows the true meaning of NEVER FORGET.
I have made three visits to the Flight 93 Memorial - the first being very soon after the event when there was a fence where people could leave tributes, along with a bench for each of the victims. There was someone there reading the names of the victims on a rotating basis. The parking area was very small and we had to park our motorhome at the top of the hill and walk back. The second time was a few years later when the upgraded memorial was under construction. I was able to leave a 23rd Psalm bracelet on the memorial. Then in 2019 my sister-in-law and I saw the further upgraded memorial which is very tastefully done and were able to visit the tower with the chimes activated by the wind. A very memorable visit.
We have visited b this site since the tragedy occurred. At the time, there were rudimentary panels of wood framed chicken wire where visitors could leave tokens of remembrance and honor. It was powerful in a visceral way. Folks just had to leave something tangible in identification of solidarity with the heroes of Flight 93. While very different from the first memorial, Friends of Flight 93 have curated and established a hallowed tribute. See it. Support it. Share it. Don't allow time to fade the sacrifice.
9/11/2001. The worst day in American History. Yet nearly 20 percent of Americans living today were not yet born on that day. The Flight 93 Memorial exists to remind us all what happened that day, as the passengers on that flight became heroes and bravely fought back against the terrorists. Their actions saved the lives of many people who would have died if the plane reached its target. A visit there is a solemn but uplifting experience. We should never be forgotten.
This memorial does an amazing job of telling the story of 9/11 with specific focus on those lost on Flight 93. What's so unique about this memorial is that it celebrates the LIVES not just the loss of those on Flight 93. It also helps us to understand all the many people involved in the following investigation of this hijacking and the others on 9/11. It's informative, powerful, and inspiring. I have to also stress that ALL of the people who work and volunteer at the memorial are amazing. Special shout out to Adam Shaffer and Betsy Keene who have the energy, enthusiasm, and vision to keep this a living memorial that will continue to help people understand and appreciate this pivotal moment in US history.
The Flight 93 National Memorial is a sobering experience. And it is an important, even necessary one for all of us to participate in. The quiet, peaceful ambiance of the site, combined with the very sensitively designed museum, provide a significantly beautiful memorial for the 40 passengers and crew members. I believe you will come away, as I did, with an imprinted memory of that day, along with heightened respect coupled with mourning for those courageous heroes whom many of us never personally knew.
I will never forget how after September 11 THE AMBASSADORS OF FLIGHT 93, local volunteers, kept the crash site safe and guided visitors. These Somerset County and surrounding area residents were, and are true patriots.
The Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial have been an outstanding support group for the Flight 93 National Memorial. Even before the Memorial opened, they worked with a Fred Rogers group to facilitate training on how to talk about tragedies to young people. Their school tour programs, speakers series, and fundraising for park improvements have substantially assisted the National Park Service in its mission to remember the sacrifice and heroism of the passengers and crew of Flight 93.
For me, the Flight 93 National Memorial site in PA is more important than any other site in America on September 11th. The people who died, knowing they were about to die and take other innocents with them, deliberately fouled the Terrorists' plans that day. That kind of courage surpasses the death of all the other innocents killed in NYC and DC.
For future generations, it is imperative that they are made to acknowledge this kind of Bravery.
I love how so many people are involved in the environmental restoration of the site. Really brings people together, learn, and share. Very few organizations are able to bring in arborists and volunteers.
The Friends of Flight 93 go above and beyond when promoting the Memorial. They have introduced new programming to help educate the youth about the events of that day.
This is a non profit with it's heart and soul remembering the brave 40 passenger and crew that gave their lives that day.
I have been a member of the Friends for years. My friend Deora Bodley was on Flight 93 and in her memory, I raised over $18,000 towards the Tower of Voices through my many Flight 93 benefit shows and also am Captain of Team DEORA and we participate every year in the San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb to raise money for Firefighter Aid. I visit the Memorial every December.
I was a donor during the early days of the Flight 93 National Memorial, as an American it was an honor for me to make donations to help build this beautiful memorial for these brave American Patriots women and men who hold a special place in the hearts of Americans like myself and who will NEVER FORGET the sacrifice these ordinary but exceptional brave Americans made in their final hours. May this memorial show future American generations how these honorable patriots gave their lives for the country they loved!
DonnaGibson 10/04/2023
Thank you, Lynette. A primary goal for Friends is to keep the Flight 93 story meaningful and relevant. We do this through educational programs both on-site and virtually. Continued support from donors like yourself, help us achieve the mission. Thank you.
I am a major sponsor of THE MEMORIAL. When I visited THE MEMORIAL I was VERY MUCH IMPRESSED. I stayed for 2 days. The Visitor Center was VERY IMPRESSIVE, The Wall of Honor will touch you VERY DEEPLY. While standing at the Wall of Honor I closed my eyes, I heard the plane coming, I saw it fly over me, saw the crash, I believe my heart stopped for a moment or two. I cried. I stayed for the LUMINARY SERVICE, VERY TOUCHING. Then I knew why we need a MEMORIAL for those 40 + 1 unborn passenger. It is WELL WORTH THE TRIP and TIME spent. There is a motorcycle ride for 9/11 in Lycoming County but the organizers and fire company WILL NOT RECOGNIZE FLIGHT 93 or its CREW or PASSENGERS. I do not ride in it for that reason...!!!!!!
The memorial team are so hard working and dedicated to help us remember the victims of Flight 93, who were not only heroic on that day, but during their lives too! The tributes are heartwarming and the museam is very interesting!
I highly reccomend the memorial! 5 stars isn't enough - I rate it 10 stars!
Thank you Flight 93 Memorial Team!
DonnaGibson 10/04/2023
Thank you!
The Friends of Flt 93 are always willing to help us with our needs when we attend the Flt 93 National Memorial every year. They are constantly looking up ways to fundraiser during the year.
I've seen it from the day that jet crashed into the ground to what it is today. The most sacred place for these souls to rest and have God's loving arms wrapped around each and everyone of these Hero's. Most of the more recent way is by the web sight and there pictures, but it still means the same and still makes my heart remember why these heroes are there. It's been about four years since my family made a visit to tis sight, because of sickness. We hope to get back soon to see it finished. It looks just Beautiful and to know all the people who helped with this project are also heroes.
We visited the Memorial and it was very, very nice. I have a couple of suggestions. First of all, we walked all around the path and on the way back, going UPHILL, there were very few benches, although there were numerous ones in other areas. They should put more benches on the hilly part. Also, I was surprised that there was no place to purchase even a little snack or water. I think it would have been nice to have at least one vending machine in the Visitor Center. I didn't see any. Also, it might have been difficult but a bathroom at the halfway point would have been nice.
The National Memorial for Flight 93 is amazing, moving and a must see. It is well managed. Alas, those of us who kept this dream alive in the earliest years by steady donations are forgotten and disrespected. Once it caught traction, and big funders came in, we were thrust aside. No plaque tells our names. We don't exist. Supposedly there is a laptop somewhere on site with a list of our names but when I went it was broken. A not unfamiliar story in good causes when the big guns roll and steal all the charitable valor. So badly done, but should not infect the beauty, poignance and importance of this site, and you should visit. Bring your kleenex. The valor of the people who crashed this plane rather than let it destroy our capitol is unsullied.
DonnaGibson 10/04/2023
On Friends home page www.flight93friends.org there is a section (toward bottom of home page) called Founders Registry. All founding partners are recognized on that page. You can click on learn more and search for your name. Make sure you search exactly how your name was written on original donations. Thank you.
We’ve been to the Memorial three times. The first time was when they just had the wall of names finished. It was incredibly moving.
Our second visit was with two of our grandchildren and the path around was complete. This second visit was amazing. We had more time to ponder the enormity of the loss. Our third visit was a month ago. It is complete and so beautiful and educational and moving. I have encouraged everyone I know to make the trip. I believe everyone should see at least one of the Memorials in their lifetime so we never forget!❤️