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The day after Memorial Day, America’s debt to the fallen still remains

Tue, 26 May 2026 05:00:12 -0400

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, we are not merely preparing to celebrate a birthday. We are being forced to take inventory.

Two and a half centuries of independence did not arrive cleanly, cheaply, or inevitably. This nation was built through sacrifice, protected through sacrifice, and if it is to endure, it will be protected through sacrifice still.

That is the hard truth Memorial Day asks us to confront. Not for one long weekend. Not for one parade. Not for one moment of silence before the burgers hit the grill. But every day after.

For those who have experienced war, Memorial Day is not confined to a square on the calendar. It lives in names, faces, dates, empty chairs, folded flags and memories that arrive without warning. The fallen gave everything in an instant, and the living carry it for a lifetime. That burden is not theoretical. It has weight.

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For the rest of America, Memorial Day should serve as an annual inventory. A national and personal audit. We read their names. We say their names. We teach their names. But the harder question is this: Am I living in a way that honors and upholds the memory and sacrifice of the fallen?

That question matters because freedom is not inherited cleanly. It is handed down through blood, grief, courage and loss. We are not simply beneficiaries of liberty. We are debtors to it.

Abraham Lincoln understood this at Gettysburg. Standing on ground soaked with sacrifice, he called on the living to dedicate themselves to "the unfinished work" of those who gave their lives. That charge has not expired. The fallen left unfinished work behind. The work of preserving the Union. The work of defending liberty. The work of making America worthy of the men and women who never came home.

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There is an old saying: A soldier dies twice. Once when and wherever they draw their last breath and a second time when their name is spoken for the last time.

That is why remembrance matters. But remembrance alone is not enough.

Saying their names keeps memory alive. Living worthy of their sacrifice gives that memory force. It turns reverence into action. It turns gratitude into responsibility. It turns Memorial Day from a passive observance into a lifelong commitment.

The fallen did not sacrifice everything so we could become cynical, divided, lazy, or indifferent. They did not give their tomorrows so we could squander our today. They died for the ideal of this nation, for what America could become, and in a very real sense, for you and me personally.

That creates an obligation.

Not everyone is called to wear the uniform. But every American is called to carry part of the load. Build stronger families. Strengthen your community. Work hard. Build businesses. Create jobs. Serve your neighbors. Teach your children why this country matters. Invest in the places and people around you. Solve problems instead of only complaining about them. Leave your corner of America stronger than you found it.

That may sound simple. It is not. It requires discipline, humility and a willingness to put something bigger than self above comfort.

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As we near America’s 250th anniversary, the question is not whether this nation has been perfect. It has not. The question is whether we still have the courage, gratitude and moral seriousness to honor those who gave everything for its promise.

Memorial Day is not one day. It is a covenant.

The day after Memorial Day, the debt remains. The names remain. The unfinished work remains.

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Each American faces a choice: pick up the torch and carry it forward or quietly dismiss the sacrifice that made our freedom possible.

Only one of those choices is worthy of the fallen.

Kirk Offel is a Navy nuclear attack submarine veteran and the CEO of Overwatch Mission Critical, a Texas-based service-disabled veteran-owned data center company that trains and hires future leaders for high-skill jobs in the data center industry. He is a Top 10 ranked global voice on data centers.

As an Army widow, I will never forget how ordinary Americans honored my husband

Mon, 25 May 2026 05:00:52 -0400

On Nov. 2, 2023, I lost my husband Andy in a Humvee accident during an Army Reserve training exercise in Virginia. He was a captain. He was four months shy of his 28th birthday. We had a 17-month-old daughter named Adalyn, we were in the middle of building a home, and we had just received pre-approval on a 200-acre farm, a purchase we had dreamed of for years. None of that mattered by 2:20 that afternoon, when I picked up the phone and heard his commanding officer say words, I asked him to text me, because my ears were ringing and the walls felt like they were caving in.

Three days later, I drove to Virginia Commonwealth University trauma center in Richmond with my family, to bring Andy home. A hearse from the funeral home in Edinburg met us there. Andy's commanding officer was waiting in uniform, with the straight back and stoic features you would expect from an Army officer. He gave me the tightest hug of my life, and as we separated, his legs buckled and he sank to his knees.

I figured the drive home would be a quiet two and a half hours. A small procession behind a white hearse with green markings, my brother-in-law at the wheel, my family, Andy's brothers and a few friends following. I expected solemn. I expected uneventful.

I was wrong about all of it.

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The first overpass should have been a hint. I glanced up from a text on my phone and saw a fire engine parked across the bridge, an American flag draped over its side, three uniformed firefighters holding fast at salute as we approached. This is for Andy, I realized. This is for us.

A few miles down, another overpass appeared, and on it another fire engine, this one with its ladder raised and maybe a dozen uniformed firefighters standing centered over a massive American flag hanging down across the railing. Saluting. The sight was awe-inspiring and emotionally wrenching all at once. I held my gaze on that overpass until it shrank from view in the rear window, touched by the kindness of strangers and wishing only that I had thought to take a picture.

As it turned out, I would have plenty more chances.

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I could see the next overpass coming in the distance, what appeared to be tiny figurines standing before a toy fire truck. As we drew closer, I saw another American flag, this one held high by a pair of firefighters in dress uniforms saluting with their free hands. They had been joined by civilians who came on their own. Men, women, children and even toddlers little older than my daughter standing at salute.

We passed under around 35 overpasses on the way home. Firefighters maintained a stoic, reserved, respectful presence on almost every one of them. American heroes themselves, paying tribute to a fallen soldier they had never met. And it was not just the overpasses. People had pulled off the highway onto the shoulder of the road and were saluting us as we passed. I could not believe the multitude of strangers who paid their respects along the way.

I learned later that our friend Josh had helped arrange it. I had called him a few days earlier and asked if he could organize a small homecoming on Main Street in Woodstock for friends and family. I had not expected a homecoming that spanned the entire two-and-a-half-hour drive.

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Josh was a volunteer firefighter, and he knew the right people to call at the various municipalities along Route 64 and Route 81. His wife, Amanda, arranged for a professional photographer and videographer so that Andy's final ride home would be preserved forever, mainly for Adalyn to watch one day when she is old enough to appreciate it.

One of the men in Andy's unit, Mike, happened to also be a police officer in Richmond. He led the procession from the medical examiner's office onto I-95. From there, local and state police took over from one another at regular intervals along the highway. At one point, they closed off access to the interstate to allow our small line of vehicles an unimpeded merge up the ramp. "This is what they do for the president," my brother-in-law said.

No one had warned me about any of it. They wanted it to be a surprise, a pleasant shock in stark contrast to the one I had been handed three days before. That was especially true of one of the last tributes we passed under: a giant American flag suspended between two cranes over Route 81, flanked by ordinary people who wanted to show their support with a wave, a salute, a sign, or just a smile. I wish we could have stopped, so I could have thanked every single one of them.

Closer to home, the overpasses gave way to something equally inspiring. Farm equipment was parked along the outer edges of Route 81 for the last 35 miles between Harrisonburg and Woodstock. Not random farmers. Andy's customers. Andy worked in agriculture and he treated the farmers he serviced like family. Now they were lining the road with their tractors, pickers, backhoes, loaders, cultivators and balers, standing before their machines in sad stoicism with a salute or a wave.

I did not know their politics. I did not know who they voted for or what teams they rooted for. I did not know their dreams or their failures, their tragedies or their celebrations. I just knew they had showed up.

We had set out for Richmond in the bright sunshine of early morning, a roughly two-and-a-half-hour drive. It took us four hours to get home, thanks to the endless memorial displays of tribute.

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I wish it had stretched on forever.

Our police escort guided us slowly along Main Street in Woodstock toward the funeral home. My neighbors stood lining the roadside, on their porches, in their front yards, waving the souvenir American flags attached to a stick. It looked like the Fourth of July. Pastor Nate stood with one foot in the road and the other on the sidewalk, crying as he held the Emanuel Church flag overhead, the same flag that had welcomed us to Woodstock years before.

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Andy had a line-of-duty death. Technically, that means I was handed the ceremonial folded flag at his funeral the following Friday. The Army actually provided three: one for me, one for Adalyn, and a third I gave to Andy's Uncle Wayne. I have struggled, every day since, with whether I deserve to call myself a military widow. Andy did not die in Afghanistan or Iraq. He died in a training accident, on American soil, on a Thursday afternoon, four minutes after texting a friend that he would call him back in 15.

But what I learned on the road home from Richmond is that this country does not measure that distinction the way I did. The firefighters on those overpasses did not ask where Andy died, or how, or whether his death counted. They climbed up there in dress uniforms and held a flag and stood at salute for a stranger because he had worn the uniform, and he was not coming home.

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On Memorial Day, I will think about all of them. The firefighters. The farmers. The neighbors with the little flags on sticks. Pastor Nate weeping on Main Street. The strangers who pulled their cars onto the shoulder of the highway because a hearse was passing. None of them knew Andy. All of them showed up for him.

That is what Memorial Day is. Not a sale, not a long weekend, not the start of summer. It is a country deciding, on its own, without being asked, to stand on an overpass and salute.

Defending Indy 500 champion Alex Palou honors Kyle Busch while chasing back-to-back victories

Sat, 23 May 2026 14:58:33 -0400

Defending champion Alex Palou will lead the field from pole position at Sunday's sold-out Indianapolis 500 as the racing world mourns NASCAR legend Kyle Busch following his unexpected death.

Speaking on "Fox & Friends Weekend," Palou reflected on Busch's contributions to motorsports and the high-stakes pressure of the race. Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles echoed the sentiment, noting that the annual Memorial Day weekend event honors fallen heroes while celebrating American tradition.

"I know what he has done for the sport, for NASCAR especially, and how he has just changed and made a mark. So very sad," Palou said Saturday.

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Busch died unexpectedly at age 41 Thursday.

His family released more details about his cause of death Saturday, writing, "Severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming associated complications."

Out of respect, Richard Childress Racing is temporarily retiring Busch’s No. 8 car until his 11-year-old son, Brexton, is old enough to take it over.

Palou said he is sending "all the energy" to Busch's family, wife and children, adding, "Hopefully we can see Brexton running that No. 8"

Palou is widely viewed as the frontrunner for Sunday's race after claiming the No. 1 starting spot. A victory would make Palou a back-to-back Indy 500 champion. He is actively chasing his fifth IndyCar Series championship.

"Just super happy to be starting on pole. Our car was super, super fast, obviously, in qualifying. And I can't wait to get that view on the first lap," Palou said.

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The grandstands for this year's event are sold out for the second consecutive year, with the venue expected to host 350,000 people. IMS President Doug Boles said management has invested roughly $250 million in improvements at the venue over the last decade while working to attract families and younger fans.

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He noted that this year's event carries added significance as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. While there are updates to the event, he said dedicated fans will recognize that the most important aspects of the event are the same.

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"What makes it special is the things that you remember as a kid that your dad brought you to or whoever introduced you to it, sort of still stays the same. And it's just this American tradition, and that's part of what makes it special," Boles said.

"All of the tradition that leads up to the start of the Indy 500 is about celebrating our country and celebrating the moments that we have here, back home again in Indiana."

Bob Woodson taught me America’s wounds heal only through truth and courage

Thu, 21 May 2026 13:27:50 -0400

One thing that is often overlooked, or simply not understood, is how hard a fate it was to be born into a segregated America and then come of age just as the country began to reckon with its racial horrors in the 1960s. For centuries, Blacks had been slaves and then segregated, always divorced from the full rights promised by American principles. They built a world within America, a parallel civilization of churches, schools, businesses and communities forged out of necessity and extraordinary will. And then in the 1960s, one civil rights victory after another came. How does an oppressed people come into freedom, one of the hardest yet most rewarding conditions to live in? In that shock of freedom, which path is the right one forward?

That was the fate of Bob Woodson, who passed away on May 19, 2026, at 89 years old. He was born Robert Leon Woodson on April 8, 1937, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of a working-class family that knew both poverty and promise. His father died when he was still a boy, and Bob and his four siblings were raised by their mother in the housing projects of South and then West Philadelphia. He saw up close the damage that broken families, failing institutions, and street violence could do to a young life. At 17, he dropped out of high school and joined the Air Force, and began the long journey that would take him to college, graduate school and the front lines of the civil rights struggle.

Bob marched, organized and directed community development programs for the NAACP and other organizations. But the harder part may have come after the civil rights victories. It is often said that a victory gets you through the door where the real and hard work begins. Bob knew that better than most. He searched for the right path forward, working with the National Urban League, serving as a resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, trying one organization after another. He found them all, in one way or another, inadequate. It wasn't until 1981, armed with little more than a $25,000 grant and two decades of hard-won experience, that he founded what would become his life's work: the National Center for Neighborhood Enterprise. It later was renamed the Woodson Center.

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What gave Bob his fire, his light, was his unwavering desire to connect every single one of his people to the American Dream. He used that phrase, "his people," freely and proudly, because he saw clearly what was being done to them. He believed they were being fed the bad ideas of dependency by Whites who wanted racial redemption for themselves more than they wanted Black development. The liberal welfare politics that followed the Civil Rights movement had, in Bob's view, trapped millions of low-income Blacks in a state of dependency, while enriching the elite class of professionals and politicians who managed their poverty. As he wrote in a 1995 essay in The New York Times, he had "spoken out against a liberal agenda that has trapped millions of low-income blacks in a state of dependency and used the conditions of poor blacks to establish race-based policies that benefit middle- and upper-income blacks."

At the same time, Bob sought to build bridges with Whites, but on the right terms. Not through guilt. Not through dependency. He sought to create that bridge through the American principles that he believed belonged to everyone equally. I attended several events with him over the years, and he had a ritual. He would look out at a room that often contained a smattering of Whites and then say with that mischievous wink: "I absolve every one of you. Not one of you is guilty. I absolve all of you of the racial sins of the past." People would laugh. But underneath that joke was a profound and deliberate act. Bob knew, as my father Shelby Steele has always argued, that the post-1960s Left had sought power by keeping Whites on the hook for the sins of the past, not to achieve justice, but to maintain political leverage. In doing so, they had engineered a permanent gap between Blacks and Whites. By offering the joke of an absolution, Bob was, on one hand, mocking the Left's efforts to guilt Whites, and on the other hand, inviting Whites to come down off the hook and join him as equal human beings, fallible, capable and responsible together for building something better.

Bob Woodson was a unifier in the most practical sense. He refused to allow himself to be corrupted by the racial politics that consumed so much of the post-Civil Rights era. What he wanted above all were solutions — on the ground, in communities, run by the people who lived there. The Woodson Center brought training and support to more than 2,600 leaders of faith-based and community organizations in 39 states, helping them secure more than 10 times the funding the center itself spent. These were not theoretical programs dreamt up by bureaucrats in Washington. They were answers forged by the people closest to the problems. And that was Bob’s secret sauce: help the right people closest to the problem, for they know the answer.

My father and Bob go way back to the 1980s. They were on television together several times. It even became a small joke in our house that if one couldn't make an appearance, the other would fill in. I met Bob for the first time around 2016 through our mutual friend Beth Feeley. One of the first things he told me was that he wanted to do a book or media series on the historical heroes of Black America. He wanted to exalt men and women like Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, Ida B. Wells, Madam C. J. Walker, and Robert Smalls, who had built, thrived and overcome against impossible odds.

He was sickened by what he saw as a narrative of victimhood that had taken hold of so many young Black minds. On one of our early calls he said something I will never forget: "How can you do that to children? It's abuse." He was right. A people cut off from their true heritage, a heritage of surviving, overcoming and thriving, is a people without a compass. The victimhood narrative was false, and it was poison. It benefited only the Black elites and White liberals who trafficked in it.

He soon launched that project that became 1776 Unites, and it was launched as a direct counter to The New York Times' 1619 Project. Where the 1619 Project sought to place slavery at the center of the American story and continue the legacy of racist America, the 1776 Unites project sought to correct the record of America’s founding, and it also told the stories of Blacks who became millionaires despite oppression, who built institutions, who refused to be defined by the oppression that had been done to them. Bob wanted to plant seeds of possibility in young minds and drive out the curse of fatalism.

My favorite memory of Bob is from Ferguson, Missouri, where we flew him out to be interviewed for "What Killed Michael Brown?" the documentary I made with my father. He met us in the hotel lobby wearing his brown suit and a fedora. His style was old school Black. He reminded me of the Blacks I saw growing up in San Francisco and Oakland during the 1980s. We took him to Canfield Drive, to the spot where Michael Brown had been shot. Bob paused, removed his fedora and said a prayer. Then we sat down for the interview. He had no filter. The gems came one after another and I remember thinking, how will I ever edit all of this?

The moment that has stayed with me was when he paused and said that if Michael Brown had valued his life, he would not have risked it, he would not have charged Officer Darren Wilson in a way that put his life in mortal danger. Bob said it with that slight, sad smile of his, a smile that held both the tragedy and the promise. The tragedy that a young man had made choices that put his life at terrible risk. The promise that by naming the truth plainly, Bob was pointing toward something better. He believed the power of truth would force change, that only by seeing the full horror of what had transpired could we begin a turn toward betterment. How do we bring value back to life? That was his question. It was always his question.

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Bob Woodson is gone now. He was 89 years old, and he gave every one of those years to the fight. We will never see him and his fedora again. But his work remains unfinished, and it falls to us to carry it on. We must tell the true stories of America, warts and triumphs. We must never turn away from truth, no matter how horrifying. We must strive to show understanding and always reject the politics of dependency and victimhood. We must build on the ground, with the people who live there, and invite everyone, Black and White, to work together as equal human beings.

That was Bob's singular talent, and it is now his challenge to us. May God bless Robert L. Woodson Sr. May we have the strength to carry on his work.

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FIRST ON FOX: Behind the scenes of Arlington’s Memorial Day tribute for America’s 250th birthday

Wed, 20 May 2026 08:30:34 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: In observance of Memorial Day, country stars, veterans and lawmakers will host a candlelight ceremony to mark America’s 250th birthday at the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia Monday.

"Memorial Day is a sacred reminder that freedom is never free. We honor the brave men and women who gave their lives defending America and its founding principles that we hold dear," said the event's master of ceremonies, Veteran Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, to 91�� Digital. "Their sacrifice is the foundation of American freedom, and we thank God for their courage."

Organizers shared event details and rendering with 91�� Digital for a national celebration honoring America’s heroes during a pivotal year bringing together country music stars and officials.

"Set against the sacred grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, the evening will serve as a powerful national tribute to America’s fallen heroes through storytelling, music, remembrance, and reflection," said Freedom250, the nonpartisan group helping coordinate the broader America250 effort, said in a press release.

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Grammy Award-winning country music artist Gretchen Wilson will take the stage to perform.

"I am overwhelmed to have been asked to honor the fallen heroes and their families this Memorial Day. What a sacred place, I pray I do it justice," said Wilson.

A newly released rendering shared first with 91�� Digital showed an aerial view of the amphitheater where the event will take place.

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The program will honor Medal of Honor recipient, West Point graduate and Vietnam prisoner of war Capt. Humbert "Rocky" Versace, highlighting his faith, leadership and resilience during his time in captivity.

The evening will also honor Capt. Daniel W. Eggers, a U.S. Army Special Forces officer, Green Beret and Citadel graduate who was killed in Afghanistan while serving alongside Afghan commandos in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, 91�� Digital learned.

Eggers was remembered for his humility, courage and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers, said Freedom250 in a press release.

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Veteran and national security leader Jason Beardsley, Medal of Honor recipient Maj. Gen. Patrick Henry Brady, noted historian Dr. Mark Moyar and members of the Eggers family are expected to share personal reflections on military service, sacrifice and the lasting human cost of freedom during the evening’s tribute.

"Memorial Day is about more than remembrance," said Beardsley, a veteran of the U.S. Navy and Army Special Operations Forces, said in the press release. "It is about preserving the legacy of those who gave everything for this country and ensuring future generations understand the true cost of freedom."

There will also be a wreath-laying and National Memorial Day Observance both streamed live.

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The wreath-laying pre-program will additionally have a performance by veteran and country singer Craig Morgan.

The candlelight tribute will begin at 8:30 p.m. ET on Monday and conclude at 10 p.m.

Trump announces major new landmark project in DC's West Potomac Park honoring America's greatest heroes

Fri, 15 May 2026 14:41:59 -0400

President Donald Trump announced plans to build a National Garden of American Heroes in Washington, D.C.'s West Potomac Park in a Friday morning post on Truth Social.

"I am proud to announce the site of the NATIONAL GARDEN OF AMERICAN HEROES. This magnificent exhibition of statues will be located in West Potomac Park, which we are transforming into one of the World's most beautiful public spaces," Trump wrote.

"Right now, it is a totally BARREN field of Prime Waterfront Real Estate along our Mighty Potomac River. When finished, West Potomac Park will be a World Class Masterpiece with elegant Landscaping, and adorned with Beautiful Statues, and be yet another one of my great projects to make Washington, D.C., the Safest and Most Beautiful Capital in the World," Trump's post continued.

"The National Garden of American Heroes will feature the MOST BEAUTIFUL collection of statues of AMERICAN HEROES, featuring our Illustrious Founding Fathers, Military Warriors, Religious Leaders, Civil Rights Champions, World Class Athletes, Artists, Entertainers, and MORE. The people of America (and the World!) will come here to learn and be inspired by the 'Greats'. The National Garden of American Heroes is one more project we are undertaking to honor the 250th Birthday of the Greatest Nation on Earth, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!" Trump's post concluded.

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The post also included an aerial photo of West Potomac Park, the planned site for the project.

The project would build upon Trump's ongoing plans to significantly build legacy infrastructure in the nation's capital.

The White House ballroom project, which is currently underway, is the most high-profile example of Trump's D.C. buildout, but the president is also seeking approval for a number of other major projects.

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For upcoming celebrations of America's 250th birthday, Trump is renovating the reflecting pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial, addressing leaks in the pool's structure and adding a blue liner to make the water more visually striking.

Trump said the project will cost under $2 million. "It's so important for our country," he said in a May 7 announcement.

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Trump is also seeking approval from Congress and the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) for a massive "Triumphal Arch" to be placed in front of the Arlington National Cemetery.

The massive undertaking would be 250 feet high, making it taller than any building in D.C., White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced in April.

New 9/11 Museum exhibit aims to connect younger Americans to the attacks through powerful artifacts

Thu, 14 May 2026 05:00:03 -0400

NEW YORK, N.Y. - A new exhibit at the 9/11 Memorial Museum is keeping the memory of that day and its aftermath alive, even for those who didn’t live through it, as the museum highlights 15 years since the raid that killed Usama bin Laden.

"A third of the U.S. population has been born since then, so it’s not just kids," Jay Weinkam, executive vice president of government and community affairs at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, told 91�� Digital. "It is 25 years later, and it’s our teachers, our first responders, men and women in our military forces, educating them on what happened and what the response was."

"Our Flag Was Still There" showcases flags related to 9/11 as the nation marks 25 years since the 2001 terrorist attacks and celebrates its 250th anniversary.

The history-altering terrorist attacks killed nearly 3,000 people when hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

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But many Americans are too young to remember.

"It hit me pretty hard when I realized all of the kids there weren’t even alive during 9/11," Will Chesney, a retired SEAL Team operator and dog handler, told 91��.

"As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we realize how many people aren’t old enough to remember it," Elizabeth L. Hillman, president and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, told 91��.

The exhibit, which can be found in the museum’s Foundation Hall, features flags with stories from first responders, veterans and Americans who lived through it, along with artifacts and photos spotlighting the American flag.

Marking 15 years since Usama bin Laden was killed in Operation Neptune Spear, a flag now on display was once tucked into a lead Chinook pilot’s flight gear. After returning to base, he wrote "5/1/11 Geronimo ‘NS’" on the pole base to signal the mission’s success.

Chesney said former President Barack Obama's 2011 announcement that the mission had ended signaled a turning point.

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"Seeing America just so excited and unified and coming back together, that might’ve been one of the best parts of the whole night, was seeing that on the news," he said. "I just, I really wish it would’ve lasted longer."

The museum hopes its exhibit can keep that same sense of unity.

"The flag was a source of strength, resilience and hope… people should have pride and remember how we responded," Weinkam said. "Obviously, learn about what happened, but have some pride in how we came together."

"They remind us how people can come together across the lines that divide us in service of a common cause, and that service inspired by unity is another big theme we can remember from 9/11," Hillman added.

The exhibit includes the Ground Zero flag raised by FDNY firefighters, the flag draped over the Pentagon by soldiers and firefighters and a flag raised over the last column of the South Tower.

Weinkam educators will be crucial to carry on the memory and the 9/11 Memorial Museum has placed an emphasis on programs that help teachers in classrooms across the country educate students on what occurred on that consequential day.

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Future police officers and firefighters can also use the exhibit to learn how their departments helped, Weinkam said.

"We do a lot of training with federal agencies for new recruits," he said. "Every NYPD cadet and every FDNY probie [probationer] is required to come here as part of training to learn how their department responded on 9/11."

He said honoring 9/11 heroes is more important than ever for younger generations.

"With fewer and fewer people in those leadership positions back then or even with those forces, it’s important to remind those coming up of what happened and what could happen again," he said.

Hillman also hopes the exhibit can help young people emotionally connect to what happened.

"The museum can connect people to the events of that day in a really powerful way, and having artifacts from the important historical events before, on 9/11, and after 9/11, like Operation Neptune Spear, is a great way to connect our visitors to the stories of 9/11," she said.

Personal artifacts may be the key, she said.

"When we see the spaces, when we see the material, the artifacts, the models, the axe that a firefighter carried, those sorts of real experiences, material experiences, and firsthand experiences with eyewitnesses, they help move people to understand and appreciate what came before," she said.

Retired U.S. Navy four-star Adm. William H. McRaven told 91�� that even in the worst moments, people come together, and that is something worth remembering.

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"It really showcased the American spirit," McRaven said. "It showed that in our most dire moments, we can come together, unify and get the job done. But as you point out with the fire truck behind us and this incredible museum and memorial we’re in, this is about making sure we never forget," he said.

The exhibit will remain open to the public through February 2028.

Left-wing local leader torched after griping about American flags, pushing ‘more relatable’ replacement

Thu, 07 May 2026 14:44:28 -0400

A Washington city councilwoman said she would rather fly a pride flag than the American flag while questioning why a local park displays 27 versions of the U.S. flag, some of which she said represent parts of American history that are "not great."

"To me, a pride flag is way more relatable than an American flag. I would not raise an American flag at my house because I wouldn’t. I wasn’t even born here. But I would raise a pride flag," said Lynnwood council member Isabel Mata on Monday. "As the most diverse city in all of Snohomish County, I don’t think that I’m the only one."

Mata, who identifies as a "queer, neurodivergent writer, advocate, and mindfulness meditation teacher" in her government biography, suggested replacing the flags with commemorative ones in an effort to be more inclusive—while downplaying the symbolism of the American flag.

Mata has since walked back the remarks, telling 91�� Digital that she was speaking "personally, as a queer woman, about what the pride flag means to me."

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At the heart of the argument is Wilcox Park, known as "Flag Park," which features 27 flagpoles displaying various versions of the American flag.

"This community is filled with so many beautiful cultures and diverse backgrounds and all of these things, yet we have 27 iterations of the same flag, some representing parts of American history that, frankly, are not great," said Mata.

The comment set off an outpouring of critical reactions on social media as clips of her remarks spread like wildfire online this week. It happened mere weeks before Memorial Day on the year America celebrates its 250th birthday, commentator Jason Rantz noted.

"Lynwood, Washington City Councilwoman Isabel Mata says the LGBTQ flag is more relatable than the American Flag and she would never fly an American Flag," popular conservative X account Libs of TikTok posted.

"'I wasn't even born here.' Then shut up," 91�� contributor and New York Post columnist Miranda Devine posted.

Others posted, "WA cooked," "wow" or asked "If you hate America that much, then why are you still here?" in response to the remarks.

Mata walked back her comments when asked by 91�� Digital about her dismissal of the symbolism behind the American flag.

SCHUMER PUSHES BILL TO GIVE PRIDE FLAG SAME STATUS AS US, MILITARY FLAGS

"I apologize for the way I expressed myself, and I mean that sincerely. The American flag represents the sacrifices of veterans and military families, and the promise that drew immigrants like me to this country," said Mata. "I should have honored that more carefully in my remarks, and I did not. I have deep respect for everyone who has served under that flag."

SCHUMER PUSHES BILL TO GIVE PRIDE FLAG SAME STATUS AS US, MILITARY FLAGS

She added that her comments "were not a formal policy proposal," but to raise "a broader question about how Lynnwood, the most diverse city in Snohomish County, might find additional ways to reflect its community."

"I believe there is room, in a city as diverse as Lynnwood, to celebrate the many cultures, identities, and communities that make it great, alongside the American flag, not instead of it. Any formal changes to public spaces would go through a proper public process with full community input. That is how it should work," she added.

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Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., introduced legislation in February that would make a pride flag a congressionally authorized flag.

The designation would give the pride flag protections similar to those afforded to the U.S. flag, military flags and other flags recognized by Congress.

Missouri tests medical drones to speed up rural health care

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:42:54 -0400

A new medical drone program being tested in Missouri could help speed up how critical supplies like blood and lab samples are delivered, especially in rural areas where access to care can take longer.

At a test site in Missouri, drone company Valkyrie UAS Solutions is working with Mid-America Transplant and Missouri University of Science and Technology to trial flights designed to move medical materials between smaller communities and larger hospital hubs.

The goal is to speed up the distribution of care — including blood for testing, lab samples needed for diagnoses, and tissue used to help match organ donors with recipients.

"It’s very essential. For instance, if you miss sample pickup at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, if you miss that time, it’s another week you can get it delivered on time," said a drone operator involved in the project.

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The effort comes as rural healthcare access remains a challenge nationwide. More than 130 rural hospitals closed between 2010 and 2021, according to the Senate Joint Economic Committee, leaving some patients traveling about 20 extra miles for care, including time-sensitive testing and procedures.

"When you’re looking at things like transplant speed, it’s an issue," said David Borrok, vice provost and dean of the College of Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology.

The company says its drones can fly about 100 miles per hour and are being tested along a proposed Missouri route connecting Springfield, Rolla and the St. Louis region.

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"We’re partnering with Mid-America Transplant and we’re running our test corridor from all the way from Springfield, pit stop in Rolla, all the way up to St. Louis," the operator said.

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Flights are monitored in real time using live maps, weather tools and air traffic data.

"So right now, this is the station. So this is what the pilot sees whenever the aircraft is actually in flight," the operator added.

Programs like this are beginning to emerge across the country, and researchers say the technology could expand how medical supplies are delivered in the future.

PATIENTS REMAIN CANCER-FREE NEARLY 3 YEARS AFTER RECEIVING EXPERIMENTAL IMMUNOTHERAPY

"It’s really unique. And I think it could work in a lot of different ways for a lot of different people," Borrok said.

The team hopes to begin official flights this summer, with the initial focus on transporting medical samples. Future versions of the drones are being developed to eventually carry transplant-related materials.

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A planned landing site in St. Albans would serve as the easternmost drop point along the current route.

Pro wrestling stars leading showcase to benefit Tunnel to Towers, share what being an American means to them

Mon, 04 May 2026 14:42:19 -0400

Pro wrestling stars Steve Maclin and Deonna Purrazzo are set to bring the pain for a live viewing audience in New Jersey next month – for a good cause.

Maclin, who performs for TNA Wrestling (TNA), and Purrazzo, Ring of Honor (ROH)’s current women’s pure champion, will host the Battle for the Brave: Wrestling Showcase for Heroes, which will benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

The bell will ring at 7 p.m. ET at the Rahway Rec Center in Rahway on June 6. Purrazzo said she and Maclin got the idea to put on a wrestling benefit show after working with Josh Lentin of the Heroes Cup Hockey Tournament. Being wrestlers for over a decade, Purrazzo told 91�� Digital she wasn’t sure if promoting an event would really be their cup of tea but took the challenge head on especially for a great cause.

Purrazzo said she wasn’t exactly sure how the pro wrestling world would respond to the event, but added the support has been tremendous.

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"It’s a great cause just because that entire New York/New Jersey area, the Tri-State area, has really been affected by 9/11. It affected both of our lives," Maclin told 91�� Digital. "I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2005. It just affected everyone. So, especially a lot of the talent that’s on the card as well, everybody has some type of story or link toward 9/11.

"And with Tunnel to Towers, a lot of people in that area love the cause and love what Tunnel to Towers does for the community by giving back to first responders’ families, paying off mortgages, smart homes for veterans who have been wounded and now paying off college tuitions for first responders’ and veterans’ families who have lost some loved ones."

Maclin shed light on his service as a U.S. Marine. He served in the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines Weapons Company as a machine gunner. From 2007-2011, he did tours in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

"Like I said before, 9/11 was a big part of my life as a kid growing up," he explained. "I grew up just outside of New York City. So, when 9/11 happened, I was in home room. It just pulled me in that direction. It changed a lot of people’s lives. And for me, for the better, because it instilled what I always knew I needed to do and that was to go serve and fight for my country no matter what.

"I chose the Marines because the Marines are the best. And that’s just how I’ve always been. I just try to work hard and put one foot forward and keep moving forward and it’s been a roller coaster ever since. Now, here we are, almost 25 years later, and we’re running a wrestling show in honor of 9/11 and our first responders"

The Battle for the Brave will coincide with America’s 250th birthday and America 250 celebrations across the U.S. The UFC is hosting an event at the White House in June, while IndyCar is set to race on the streets of Washington, D.C., in August.

Purrazzo and Maclin shared what being an American meant to them as pride in the U.S. starts to come into full focus.

"Growing up in New Jersey as well, 9/11 was such a big deal. For me, I was in second grade. I didn’t understand what was going on but in the days after, I felt a sense of unity in that everyone came together, everyone was proud to be an American, and we were going to fight back and stand together and be one, united country. And I think that, that feeling has always stuck with me but being a veteran’s wife, it’s taken on a completely different role.

"Steve opening up about his service and things he’s seen and experienced with me has given me a new passion to let veterans know that, yes, war will always come home with you but it doesn’t have to define you. Steve was so lucky that he was able to find wrestling right after he got out of the Marine Corps and it saved him, in a way, from falling down the unknown path of ‘What am I? Who am I next?’

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"And I think that’s something that our veterans deal with unbeknownst to the rest of the public. It’s not talked about enough. They say 22 veterans but right now the math is leading toward 44 veterans a day lose their lives to that battle – an identity crisis of who am I after service. So, that’s what it means to be American for me now, is showing that support for our veterans, showing that our country is here for them and we’re here to support them and we’re here to give them the resources that they need to live healthy and successful lives after service."

Maclin recalled working at some of the Tunnel to Towers events earlier this year, which underscored what he had fought for in Afghanistan.

"No matter who it was, male, female, Black, White, it didn’t matter the race, gender, nothing. It was everybody praising our country, waving the American flag – that red, white and blue," he said. "I know there’s an animosity toward certain views nowadays, and for me, that’s what I fight for, that’s what I still fight for.

"And once we do have children in this world, however, we can pass knowledge onto others, I always, no matter what, want to keep that pride in our country and fight for what we’re actually fighting for and that’s for our brothers and our neighbors."

Americans’ pride in their country is declining, a Gallup poll revealed last June, while a 91�� poll showed that about six in 10 are proud of the U.S. today.

91�� Digital asked Purrazzo and Maclin how can Americans get that pride back.

"I think like Steve said, the connotation of having American pride is so negative in our country right now. And I think that having patriots who stand up and say, no I believe in our country, I believe in the ideals of it, I believe in the foundation of what we were built on – fighting for our freedom, fighting for what we believe in, fighting for our neighbors, fighting to support one another. I think just being able to be comfortable and vocal in that is the first step.

"We shouldn’t be ashamed to be American. We shouldn’t be ashamed to support our military, to support the ideals of this country and what it was founded on."

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Event details

Maclin told 91�� Digital exclusively that he will be a part of the Battle for the Brave Cup Gauntlet Match. He said he will be the first competitor in the match, which will also feature Richard Holliday, Megan Bayne, BDE and others.

"Everybody’s been asking me, ‘Why would you not want to wrestle on your own show, especially for such a great cause?’ So, as of now, officially, I am entering as the No. 1 entrant in the Battle for the Brave Memorial Cup," he said. "I’ll be taking on 12 other competitors. It’s an over-the-top battle royal and the final two competitors turns into a match.

"I’m going to take the tough road and the hard road of going No. 1 and trying to make my way all the way through to be the (last) one."

Purrazzo said she, as of now, isn’t in a match. But didn’t rule out getting involved in commentary in some way.

Legendary pro wrestling tag team Jeff and Matt Hardy, known as the Hardy Boyz, will also be a part of the event.

"My brother and I are both very excited to be headlining Steve Maclin and Deonna Purrazzo's very special Tunnel to Towers event. Tunnel to Towers is a very special organization that helps take care of people who have been injured on the job protecting us - people like the military, first responders and police," the Hardys said in a statement to 91�� Digital. "We are very grateful for all of these people's services and efforts in keeping us all safe and healthy. We look forward to raising as much money as we possibly can."

Floor seats for the event are completely sold out. There are still general admission tickets and meet-and-greet tickets with the Hardy’s still available.

Iconic brands go over-the-top for America's 250th, from American Dew to birthday cake Cheerios

Mon, 04 May 2026 13:18:13 -0400

As the country prepares for America's 250th birthday celebrations this summer, several major food companies are getting in on the party by releasing limited-edition, patriotic-themed products.

Cheerios, Coca-Cola, Mountain Dew and Oreo are among the iconic, all-American brands teasing special items to commemorate the country's semiquincentennial anniversary, Allrecipes.com reported.

Cheerios will release a birthday cake-flavored cereal, set to hit shelves in a commemorative red, white and blue box in early summer.

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The new cereal "tastes like vanilla cake and features red, white and blue sprinkles, which are not made with artificial coloring as part of the brand's initiative to remove all FD&C [food, drug & cosmetic] dyes from cereals by this summer," Allrecipes reported.

General Mills first introduced the breakfast cereal as Cheerioats in 1941 before renaming the brand Cheerios four years later, according to its website.

The Coca-Cola Co. is going all-in on the celebration with "limited-edition America250 packaging, including custom bottles and Coca‑Cola's first-ever America250 collectible mini-cans," according to Coke's website.

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Each mini-can features a design unique to one of the 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, highlighting iconic local symbols — from Georgia's peach to California's "surfer culture."

Mountain Dew has temporarily rebranded itself in honor of the semiquincentennial.

PepsiCo, which owns Mountain Dew, renamed the celebrated soft drink "American Dew" for the summer. The rebranded soda will also feature American flag-themed labels and packaging.

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Oreo has gotten in on the anniversary action by announcing the launch of its Firecracker Pop cookie, which was scheduled to arrive in stores on May 4.

The creation is a result of a collaboration between Oreo and Popsicle, Today.com reported. It features "a triple-flavored treat with blue raspberry, lemon and cherry-flavored creme sandwiched between two golden cookies."

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"Love that we have the 3-layered Oreos back!" someone wrote on an Instagram post announcing the new flavor.

"Last time they did something like this, it was so gross! But I will try anyway," another person commented. Others described it as "perfect for Fourth of July."

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As 91�� Digital previously reported, Steak 'n Shake rolled out a $2.50 Statue of Liberty milkshake in March that went viral.

The shake features vanilla ice cream "blended with birthday cake, finished with whipped cream, patriotic sprinkles and an iconic dark chocolate Statue of Liberty," according to the company's website.

'Independence One' brings back golden age of air travel for America’s 250th anniversary

Sun, 03 May 2026 13:42:09 -0400

Southwest Airlines is marking America’s upcoming 250th anniversary with a new patriotic aircraft and a partnership aimed at boosting volunteer efforts nationwide.

The airline announced the launch of "Independence One," a specially designed plane featuring red, white and blue elements tied to the nation’s founding.

The aircraft includes visual references to American history, including "1776" displayed in script, 13 stars representing the original colonies and the phrase "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" from the Declaration of Independence, the airline said in a press release.

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Independence One joins two other America-themed planes in Southwest’s fleet, including Freedom One, introduced in 2021, and Liberty One, another recently unveiled aircraft.

"With our new 'Independence One' and 'Liberty One' aircraft, we honor this important milestone in our nation’s history," Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said in a statement.

The airline also announced a partnership with America250, the organization leading the nationwide celebration of the country’s semiquincentennial.

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As part of the initiative, Southwest said it will contribute up to $250,000 through a "We Serve Together" grant program, supporting nonprofit organizations connected to employee volunteer efforts.

The funding builds on more than 180,000 hours of volunteer service logged by Southwest employees in 2025, according to the company.

"As America marks its 250th anniversary, Southwest Airlines’ legacy of connecting people and communities reflects the spirit of freedom and opportunity that defines our nation," Rosie Rios, chair of America250, said in a statement.

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The new jet entered service last week, with its first flight departing from the airline's hometown of Dallas and heading to Philadelphia, a city closely tied to the nation’s founding.

The aircraft will continue to fly routes across the country throughout the year as part of the broader America250 celebration.

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The airline, which has operated for more than five decades, said the initiative reflects its long-standing mission of connecting communities across the United States while honoring the country’s history.

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91�� Digital reached out to Southwest Airlines for further comment.

American Culture Quiz: Test yourself on remarkable road trips and cool coin collections

Sun, 03 May 2026 07:00:11 -0400

The American Culture Quiz is a weekly test of our unique national traits, trends, history and people — including current events and the sights and sounds of the United States.

This week's quiz highlights remarkable road trips, cool coin collections — and a lot more.

Can you get all 8 questions right?

Give it a try and see how you do!

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To try your hand at more quizzes from 91�� Digital, click here.

Also, to take our latest News Quiz — published every Friday — click here.

UFC ring announcer Bruce Buffer expects White House fights to be 'a spectacle' as event approaches

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 12:04:44 -0400

In roughly six weeks, arguably the most anticipated UFC event of all time will take place when some of the best fighters in the world will be in the Octagon at the South Lawn of the White House.

UFC Freedom 250, also known as UFC White House, will take place on June 14, President Donald Trump's 80th birthday, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.

In-ring announcer Bruce Buffer is limiting his excitement for the time being, saying he has "a lot of other exciting things to do before then," but "I'll get super excited that week."

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But while reserving his excitement until it gets closer, he already knows the importance of the event.

"I think because of how much publicity it's going to receive and everything else, it's going to be one of the most highly viewed, not the most highly viewed, UFC event in history," Buffer told 91�� Digital.

"Obviously, it's an honor for the fighters to fight on the White House lawns and an honor for me to announce and do my part. It's another show, but it's gonna be a spectacle, that's for sure."

Some UFC fans were rather disappointed when the card was announced, however. A long-awaited Conor McGregor return, which fans have wanted to be against Michael Chandler, is not happening, and while everyone clamored for a heavyweight title bout between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, that, too, is not happening.

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The card is still nothing to sneeze at, though, as Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria will headline the event for the UFC Lightweight Championship, with Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane serving as the co-main event.

"It's an exciting card. Listen, every time the fans say it's a little underwhelming or whatever, it becomes one of the most exciting events that there is," Buffer said. "You have fight nights where you don't recognize some of the names and go, 'Oh, what's this all about?' Then you watch the fights and go, 'Oh my God, look at these fights. They're incredible.' Right?

"All I can say is, be appreciative of the fact that you have the UFC entertainment to watch, that they're providing the entertainment value, and the fighters are putting their blood, sweat, and tears on the line. There's a lot of events, not everyone's going to have Jon Jones and Conor. And I think whenever they come, and they fight again, I would love to see Jon fight again. I would love to see Conor fight again. But until then, we've got a lot of great fighters out there, a lot of great fights to watch. So to me, it's always exciting."

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Chandler will fight Mauricio Ruffy, and other fighters on the card include Bo Nickal and Sean O'Malley.

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Riley Gaines says motherhood inspired her new children's book celebrating American exceptionalism

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 06:30:59 -0400

OutKick host Riley Gaines says her new children’s book, "1, 2, 3, We Are Free!," was born out of motherhood, telling 91�� Digital that the arrival of her daughter reshaped her sense of purpose and deepened her desire to teach the next generation about what makes America "the greatest nation in the world."

"Getting pregnant, it shifted my perspective a little, but I will never forget holding my daughter in my hands for the first time," Gaines told 91�� Digital. "My perspective shifted at that point to understanding like it is no longer about me… You subconsciously shift your perspective into wanting a safer, more fair, more righteous, more just, more moral country for your daughter to inherit."

Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer and women's sports activist, welcomed her daughter, Margot, in October. She recently released the new board book in partnership with Brave Books to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.

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Gaines said the book is aimed at families with very young children and is designed to teach kids how to count while also introducing them to themes of "faith, family and freedom."

"The intent is to teach them about America’s history, American exceptionalism and all the things that make America great," she added.

She believes that message is more important now than ever at a time when patriotism is declining and political violence is on the rise.

According to a June 2025 Gallup poll, only 41% of adults say they are extremely proud to be an American, while 17% are very proud to be an American, a nine-point drop from the year prior.

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"It’s really concerning to me, even look at the events of this past weekend where the wannabe Trump assassin, the third wannabe Trump assassin, was a school teacher. Think about that," Gaines said.

At the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on Saturday, a gunman rushed through security at the Washington Hilton Hotel and opened fire before being subdued by the Secret Service. The suspect, Cole Allen, 31, from Torrance, California, was a tutor at a college prep center.

According to law enforcement, Allen shared a manifesto and social media posts outlining his intent to target President Donald Trump and other administration officials.

After dozens of educators across the country faced consequences for celebrating the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk last fall, Gaines suspects there's a "concerning" percentage of teachers who also agree with the act of violence against the administration.

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"They agree that at least in some way, shape, or form, it's justified," Gaines warned. "Those are the people who are entrusted with educating and shaping the minds of the youth, the most vulnerable, the most impressionable, the people who will dictate the future of this country for many, many generations."

"That is why I care. We have to be able to provide an alternative to that," she continued.

"Teachers, I think specifically, who are teaching kids to hate America, about America's roots and how it's evil and how it's deeply oppressive when the reality is, we are the most inclusive, the most diverse, the most opportunistic nation this world has ever seen as it currently stands," Gaines said. "So that's the message that we want to be able to communicate to my daughter and her generation."

Gaines’ book is currently being sold as part of a Brave Books bundle alongside new titles from Kirk Cameron and Dr. Ben Carson centered on America’s founding and values.

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Gaines is no stranger to experiencing political violence.

In 2023, she said she was assaulted by protesters at a Turning Point USA event where she spoke to students at San Francisco State University about her experience in her senior year of college competing against male swimmer Lia Thomas.

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No arrests were made after the incident and the San Francisco Police Department said it had suspended the investigation in February 2024.

Clarence Thomas warns America: Liberty dies when we choose comfort over courage

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 05:00:04 -0400

Americans will hear a lot of speeches this year marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, but it’s hard to imagine anyone topping the one Justice Clarence Thomas delivered at the University of Texas at Austin. If one is inclined to believe that the majesty of our founding documents, and the ideals enshrined therein, still resonate in the hearts of Americans, then Justice Thomas’s speech was a clarion call to conscience, a summons to the courage and clarity that animated the American Revolution.

Thomas praised Dean Justin Dyer and UT’s new School of Civic Leadership, saying it was his sincere hope that their work "to revitalize the teaching and research of Western civilization and the American constitutional tradition will lead the way in the reform of our nation’s colleges and universities" — a generous note of gratitude for those who labor, often anonymously, in the vineyards of civic virtue.

Thomas’s reverence for the Declaration of Independence was palpable, as he recounted the audacity of Jefferson’s assertion that "all men are created equal." He reminded his audience that the Declaration is not a relic — an obscure, esoteric, academic plaything to be admired from afar — but a living testament to the capacity of men and women to transcend the ordinary. Its words, Thomas insisted, are an invitation to courage, echoing across centuries to challenge each new generation to defy tyranny and embrace liberty.

FOR 2026, YOU SHOULD MAKE A RESOLUTION TO KNOW THE REVOLUTION

Justice Thomas drew upon a pantheon of heroes: the Founders, whose signatures risked lives and fortunes; the soldiers at Valley Forge, whose endurance was measured not only in frozen nights but in the persistence of hope; and leaders of subsequent epochs who refused to yield constitutional principles to expediency. These vignettes, rendered with characteristic sonorous solemnity, served as reminders that the American story is stitched together by acts of bravery seldom celebrated, and courage seldom acknowledged.

Notably, Thomas confronted the failures of the Supreme Court, most pointedly in his critique of Plessy v. Ferguson, the 1896 decision "that endorsed government-enforced racial segregation and validated the Jim Crow South that I grew up in." He lamented the absence of moral fortitude in those who, rather than uphold the promise of equality, succumbed to the temptations of expedience.

"It could not possibly have taken my Court 60 years," Thomas intoned, "to know that Plessy was a hideous wrong." The specter of Plessy hovered as a caution against the abdication of duty—a lesson as relevant today as in 1896.

In a manner reminiscent of William F. Buckley’s skepticism toward progressive utopianism, Thomas issued a warning against Wilsonian progressivism. He traced its lineage to a philosophy that prefers the plasticity of government by experts over the stubbornness of constitutional constraints. "Progressivism," Thomas observed, "seeks to replace the basic premises of the Declaration of Independence, and hence our form of government. It holds that our rights and our dignities come not from God, but from government." This, he suggested, is the perennial threat to republican liberty: the seductive notion that a well-meaning bureaucracy can supplant the wisdom of the Declaration. To Thomas, progressivism is "retrogressive."

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Yet the speech was not a lament, but a prescription. Thomas called for daily courage — a recommitment not merely on ceremonial anniversaries, but in the mundane acts of citizenship and stewardship. It depends upon the willingness of each citizen to defend its ideals, to speak truth, to withstand the easy comforts of silence. There is, Thomas urged, a duty to reject complacency and to embrace the challenge of self-government anew.

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As Thomas’s words settled upon the assembled crowd, one sensed the enduring relevance of his message. The principles of the Declaration remain, in his estimation, both fragile and resilient — fragile if neglected, resilient if cherished. His praise for Dean Dyer and the School for Civic Leadership was not mere ceremony; it was a recognition that the cultivation of civic courage is indispensable to the preservation of liberty.

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Justice Thomas’s address reminded me of Thomas Jefferson’s assertion that "a well-informed citizenry is the best defense against tyranny." The speech in Austin was a summons: to honor the boldness of the Founders, to reject the false comforts of progressivism, and to recommit ourselves daily to the ideals that gave birth to the nation.

It was, in sum, a reminder, timely and urgent, that the Declaration of Independence is not merely a historical document, but a living promise — a challenge to each of us to rise to the heights of courage and principle.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM CHARLES "CULLY" STIMSON

Rachel Campos-Duffy to release ‘All American Patriotism’ book with foreword by Erika Kirk

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:09:59 -0400

FOX News Books will release "All American Patriotism" by "FOX & Friends Weekend" co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy on May 19.

The book includes a foreword written by Erika Kirk, CEO of Turning Point USA and the widow of Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed in September 2025.

Campos-Duffy, in her second book under 91��' publishing arm, curated a collection of photographs capturing the nation’s natural wonders, alongside patriotic anthems and foundational documents that have defined the American spirit.

Her account also features personal reflections from FOX News Media personalities. The book will give an inspirational look at the history and vision of the country.

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"As America celebrates her 250th birthday, it wouldn’t be unfair to say that we’re facing an identity crisis. My hope is that this collection of stories from patriotic members of my FOX family reminds us of who we are. We are the descendants of conquistadors, pilgrims, rebels, freedom-loving revolutionaries, Indian chiefs, pioneers, outlaws, emancipated slaves, missionaries, and rugged cowboys," Campos-Duffy said in a statement about her announcement.

She continued, "As we mark our 250th anniversary, may these stories serve as a celebration — of the people, the resilience, and the spirit that have made us the greatest nation in human history on the face of the Earth."

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"All American Patriotism" features stories from FOX News Media personalities, including Ainsley Earhardt, Sean Hannity, Bill Hemmer, Dana Perino, Jesse Watters and more, that capture the spirit that defines America at its semiquincentennial.

Through nostalgic perspectives, the book offers readers an inspiring tribute to the nation, highlighting the values and unforgettable memories that continue to unite us.

Campos-Duffy joined the network as a contributor in 2016 and currently serves as co-host of "FOX & Friends Weekend," the top-rated weekend cable news morning show.

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In 2024, she helped launch FOX News Media’s Spanish language newscast, "FOX Noticias," where she interviewed figures including President Donald Trump, then-Attorney General Pam Bondi, Paraguay President Santiago Peña, Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader and others.

Olympic legend Katie Ledecky shares what she's learned about America

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:48:56 -0400

Katie Ledecky has proven to be an American powerhouse in the pool all by herself.

She’s the most decorated female Olympian in history with 14 total medals, including nine gold. She also has a record 18 individual gold medals at the World Aquatics Championships. It’s safe to say that she knows a thing or two about representing Team USA on the world stage.

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The 29-year-old Stanford grad was asked in an interview with "60 Minutes" what she learned about the U.S. while representing her country.

"What I’ve learned over time as a member of Team USA is that we are a nation of strivers that embraces competition of all sorts," Ledecky said. "We are a very prideful nation in how we compete. Where that striving and competitive spirit, when harnessed correctly, brings out the best in us and shows us the best of the human spirit.

"I’ve learned that sports tests our determination, our resilience and our discipline. Sports teach us every day that anything is possible. That when we try and give our best effort, that we can overcome obstacles."

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Ledecky recalled going from town to town for swim meets in different local communities when she was growing up.

"And what I’ve seen in so many different communities is that sport in America is at its best when its joy and fun, and yes, its challenges, bring us together," she added.

She will be pushing to solidify herself as a member of Team USA once again for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

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Ledecky won gold medals in the 800-meter free and 1,500-meter free at the Paris Games in 2024. She also won a silver in the 4x200-meter free and a bronze in the 400-meter free.

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ENES KANTER FREEDOM: I came here for my basketball dream. I stay for freedom and the American dream

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 05:00:43 -0500

At a time when principles are tested and passions run high, we have to return to the heart of what America stands for. It’s not just about who raises a flag, but who upholds the values of generosity, unity and a shared future. In the end, the question is about the soul of our nation. Who stands with America’s deepest ideals, and who does not?

I came to America chasing a basketball dream, but I stayed because I found something far greater: freedom.

As a Muslim and a legal immigrant, I came to the United States because freedom here is not just an idea. It is a way of life.

I did not come to impose my beliefs on anyone.

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I did not come to burn flags or hate this nation.

I did not come to conquer America.

I did not come to rewrite the Constitution.

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I did not come to shame others for their faith or values.

I did not come to tear down what generations have built.

I did not come to exploit America’s generosity, or weaken its institutions.

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I did not come to replace American values.

I came to live freely, work hard, follow the law and contribute to the country that gave me opportunity, and to respect the values that have made the United States the greatest nation on Earth. I am here because of what this nation stands for. The Constitution, the rule of law, freedom of speech, and equal justice are the foundation of America, and they are the values that drew me here and keep me here.

I am here as a legal immigrant who went through the process because I truly believe in America’s promise of freedom and democracy. This country gave me a home. It gave me a family. It gave me a voice so I can speak freely without fear. It gave me an education in the classroom and in life. It gave me teammates who became brothers. It gave me a community of people from all walks of life who embraced me. It gave me a platform to stand up for human rights and defend the voiceless. It gave me a future filled with hope and opportunity. It gave me a sense of belonging, a place where I can proudly say, this is home.

CHARLAMAGNE THA GOD ARGUES FLAG-BURNERS 'DON'T GIVE A DAMN ABOUT AMERICA' AFTER TRUMP EXECUTIVE ORDER

Because of that, let me be very clear. Burning the American flag and chanting "Death to America" is unacceptable and horrific. If you hate America, if you celebrate its destruction, you do not represent freedom, faith or justice. Patriotism means standing with innocent victims, supporting law enforcement and defending this country against its enemies. America has both the right and the responsibility to protect itself through law and order, strong security and accountability.

As someone who loves America and embraces its principles of freedom and fairness, I feel a personal responsibility to speak up. As a Muslim American, I know firsthand that loving this country means being clear about the difference between peaceful Islam and the ideologies that misuse religion. That’s why we must be clear about an important distinction: there is a difference between peaceful Islam, radicalism and political Islam.

Peaceful Islam is personal faith. It is about worship, family, charity and living peacefully under the laws of the country you call home.

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Radicalism is violence. It is terrorism. It targets innocent people and must be crushed wherever it appears.

Political Islam is an ideology that uses religion to gain power, control governments and override democratic laws. That is not compatible with freedom, and it must be confronted directly.

At its core, Islam teaches principles that are very clear. Faith cannot be forced. Laws and agreements must be respected. Innocent life is sacred. People of other religions must be treated with dignity. Extremism and chaos must be rejected. Those who abandon these principles are not practicing faith. They are distorting it.

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As a Muslim and as an American, I say this with total clarity. A true Muslim cannot be a terrorist, and a terrorist can never be a true Muslim. In Islam, killing one innocent person is equal to killing all of humanity. Terrorism is not resistance. It is not justice. It is not faith. It is murder.

Extremists have always twisted faith to justify violence, just as other violent movements have done throughout history. But let’s be clear: they do not represent Islam; they represent hatred. As someone who cares deeply about both the humanity of people and the values we hold dear, I believe we must stand together in rejecting that hatred. This is about protecting the dignity of all people and upholding the true spirit of our shared values.

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So, what is the solution? We must clearly separate peaceful faith from extremism and reject radical ideologies that seek to override American law, while always protecting free speech and peaceful protest for people of all faiths and backgrounds. Legal immigration must remain legal, with newcomers respecting the Constitution and the values of this country. Above all, America must lead with confidence, standing firmly for freedom, equal justice and the dignity of innocent life.

America is strong enough to be tough on terrorism and fair to innocent people at the same time. We defeat extremism by standing confidently for our values, not by surrendering to fear or hate.

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This country has given me so much, and I am grateful every single day for the principles it stands for. Anyone who comes to the United States should share that respect for freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. If someone hates America, hates its flag and hates what this nation stands for, then they do not belong here.

The answer to terror is strength guided by morality, backed by action, accountability and unwavering resolve. That is how America wins, and that is how freedom survives.

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