15 years ago, President George W. Bush addressed the United States:
"The search is underway for those who were behind these evil acts. I have directed the full resources of our intelligence and law enforcement communities to find those responsible and to bring them to justice. We will make no distinction between the terrorists who committed these acts and those who harbor them."
War followed.
In 2001 the CIA's Special Activities Division were the first to enter Afghanistan. By October 7, the U.S. Military began combat operations alongside them. On March 20, 2003 the Operation Iraqi Freedom began.
Today, the United States still has military and government contractors in Iraq, Afghanistan, and many other countries. The Global War on Terror has shaped not only this century, but our way of life.
We asked active duty service members, civilians, and veterans to write about 9/11 and how it has shaped their lives.