As we reflect on the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, we must again acknowledge the men and women who have worked tirelessly to ensure that this tragic and monumental day is not forgotten.

In our region, that starts with the organizers and leadership of the 9-11 Memorial Ride. The event began literally in the wake of the attack, commencing hours later as an impromptu expression of the unity our nation needed.

The event has continued, rising to meet challenges and adapt to the state’s requirements. State Rep. Joe Hamm, R-Hepburn Township, deserves appreciation as well for helping shepherd the ride through the state Department of Transportation’s concerns so that it could continue to be a symbol of our nation uniting.

Beyond our region, we appreciate the hard and thoughtful work that went into the development of Somerset County’s Flight 93 Memorial Site and of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in Manhattan.

While, as we noted in Wednesday’s editorial, it is important to remember and reflect on the lives tragically lost 24 years ago, we believe it is also important to reflect on the heroism and bravery of Americans on that tragic day. The passengers of Flight 93 who resisted the cruel aspirations of the plane’s hijackers and the first responders who saved lives at the World Trade Center should be remembered by every generation, present and future, for exemplifying the best of America. We are glad that these two sites can play a role in that process of remembering.

We hope that people across our nation can use these sites and take part in their own local observances to keep the emerging traditions of somber reflection alive.