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September 11, 2002
Wednesday
 
 
The real England speaks
Perry de Havilland (London)   Best of Samizdata.net • Anglosphere

Pubs, ladies fashion stores, restaurants, banks, cafes, mobile phone stores, boutiques, gift shops...

If you are looking for the real England, you will not find it in the pages of the Guardian, but rather on the high streets and in the shop windows.

I have just got back from lunch and what I saw on the King's Road in Chelsea, here in London, amazed me. There is no law requiring it, no government departments 'encouraging' it loudly, yet shop after shop are displaying signs saying words to the effects of "At 1:46 pm to day, we will be observing two minutes silence in remembrance of the atrocities on September 11th of last year in the United States." Others are expressing memorial sentiments, still others just displaying small American flags. No doubt these signs will all be gone by this evening, but they are there now.

Some signs are hand written by shop managers, others were clearly printed by a head office... but the signs are there and they come not from above, passed down from the salons of the chattering classes, but from below, from the true heart of England.

There is indeed an Anglosphere and it is very, very real.



























Comments

We thank you.


Posted by Sekimori at September 11, 2002 01:23 PM

Thank You.

Reading those messages accomplished what the news shows on tv didn't - it made me bawl like a baby.


Posted by Anne at September 11, 2002 02:56 PM

Thank you and bless you for your kind thoughts and consideration. Coming from the English people who have bravely faced your own adversity with courage and fortitude, your humble token of respect means a great deal to this American.

May God bless you and keep you safe.


Posted by Ernest Bower at September 11, 2002 03:02 PM

Nice to know that as a nation we have at least one true friend in the world. Thank you, and God bless you all. As you can tell from my last name, my family migrated here a great many years ago, but blood is thick... as they say here in the states.


Posted by Jim Tudor at September 11, 2002 03:23 PM

Great nations are always challenged by those who would destroy strength and freedom. England faced such a challenge in 1939-45, with steadfast resolve and great fighting spirit. It was indeed your finest hour.

As we did then, our two nations now stand together, to fight the bastards who would propogate the destruction of our free nations. They have started a war that we will finish, decisively. We prefer peace, but will ruthlessly exterminate those who choose war.

Remember the fallen, but continue to fight!


Posted by S. Mullen at September 11, 2002 03:57 PM

The Spirit of Churchill is not gone... God bless the people of Great Britain. A more staunch ally does not exist. I'm glad we can call you friend.


Posted by chris at September 11, 2002 04:06 PM

Anything that gets Oasis to be silent for two minutes...

Okay, not a day for bad jokes, but I have to wonder about the name -- would that be a middle eastern restaurant that is observing silence? Pretty gutsy if so.


Posted by Mike G at September 11, 2002 04:07 PM

Very moving tribute. Thanks for noting it.


Posted by Craig Schamp at September 11, 2002 04:10 PM

....and those jerks across the channel want to call you "Europeans." The British and Americans are made of better stuff

Thank you and God bless you


Posted by Jim Hogue at September 11, 2002 04:19 PM

I wept. Thank you.


Posted by Phil Conrad at September 11, 2002 04:22 PM

Thank you. Your finest hour during WWII inspired and inspires many who love freedom. This is a fine moment of silence. We all greatly appreciate this.


Posted by William Sulik at September 11, 2002 04:23 PM

One of the great posts of all time.

Thank you.


Posted by Ernest Gudath at September 11, 2002 04:23 PM

I think of myself as an "average American". I found myself deeply touched by this display of friendship and caring.


Posted by Ron Barrett at September 11, 2002 04:24 PM

There are moments when you discover who are your friends.


Posted by Joanne Jacobs at September 11, 2002 04:25 PM

As an American, I can say this. I will never forget the friendship of the British people. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.


Posted by Todd Kincannon at September 11, 2002 04:25 PM

Thank you so much for this page. To know that we have friends at a time like this makes me cry and makes me thank God that we don't suffer alone.


Posted by Helen at September 11, 2002 04:27 PM

This Anglosphere brother on the other side of the pond thanks and salutes you.


Posted by Dave at September 11, 2002 04:28 PM

Thank you.


Posted by Tom Villars at September 11, 2002 04:29 PM

May our two great nations forever be linked together in the cause of freedom


Posted by Joe Walker at September 11, 2002 04:30 PM

From the bottom of my heart, many thanks to the British people, some of the greatest friends and allies the United States has in this world.


Posted by David C at September 11, 2002 04:30 PM

Thank you so much for posting this. I have visited England 4 times and love it there. I have tears in my eyes reading all the signs.


Posted by Kay at September 11, 2002 04:31 PM

I want to express my gratitude for the support of the people of Great Britain. Before 9/11 a poem came to me on August 8, 2001.

Somme Valley Tour, 1985

I took a tour of the valley of the Somme
Where so many graveyards lay
Of boys who never came home
While in silent reverence I walked among them
And remembered one lucky Yank who is
not buried Over There.

I noticed that no poppies grew
Between the crosses row on row
As in Flanders fields.
Cold stones mark the soldiers passing
And a fate decided at some disputed barricade.

While between the pages of unread books
Tales of great battles lie,
With nary a mention of Private Thompson, or
Corporal Bill, or the sergeant who went
missing.

I was awed by the sacrifice of so many,
And how easily we forget:
the Tommie, Canuck, Anzac, Jock & Yank,
Inspite of the marker which reads:
Their Name Liveth Forever More.

Norman Kincaide
The lucky Yank was my grandfather, Carl G.
Duncan, wagoner, Company B, 6th
Pennsylvania Engineer Regt. Awarded the
British Military Medal for action on March 28,
1918 during the Second Battle of the Somme.
God Bless the people of Great Britain



Posted by Norman Kincaide at September 11, 2002 04:35 PM

All I can say is thank you to the people of Britain. Anything more would seem pointless to me.


Posted by Bill Dalasio at September 11, 2002 04:37 PM

"Between us there can be no word of giving or taking, nor of reward; for we are brethren... and never has any league of peoples been more blessed, so that neither has ever failed the other, nor shall fail."

--J.R.R. Tolkien

Thank you.


Posted by Michael Drout at September 11, 2002 04:38 PM

It is wonderful to see Great Britain (Great in every sense of the word!) standing proud with us in today's world. I will never forget the friendship that this nation has shown us. Thank you!


Posted by TJ Burns at September 11, 2002 04:38 PM

We appreciate it more than you can imagine. It feels lonely over here sometimes.


Posted by Russ Goble at September 11, 2002 04:40 PM

Thank you, people of England.

Thank you for a show of sympathy that touched me deeply and reminded me, once more, who our true friends are.

God Bless You.


Posted by Misha at September 11, 2002 04:46 PM

Three Cheers for GREAT BRITAIN!!!


Posted by paul gaddis at September 11, 2002 04:47 PM

My father was with the Army Air Force stationed in England (8th) during WWII. He loved the English and now I know why. God bless you, and may there always be an England.


Posted by Maureen Muncy at September 11, 2002 04:49 PM

If ever you need us....................


Posted by Bob Leahy at September 11, 2002 04:50 PM

My thanks. I will never forget.


Posted by Michael Hankamer at September 11, 2002 04:50 PM

Sincere thanks to those in London who are taking time to honor the casualties of September 11, 2001. Let me point out, however, that the events of September 11 were not a "tragedy". That word is reserved for lives lost in massive floods or other acts of God. September 11 was an act of war. And please don't remember "those who died", but rather "those who were murdered". They did not "lose their lives", they were killed by terrorists and America will bring justice to those responsible.


Posted by Dan Hickman- Richmond, Va- USA at September 11, 2002 04:53 PM

Thanks so much.


Posted by Matt at September 11, 2002 04:53 PM

I did not think that this day would affect me as much as it has, I suffered as every other American on that day, and ever since, but today, I feel remorse, that I did not do anything. I am far away from Ground Zero, no person that I know perished in these attacks, yet, I feel that as an American, donating money to the Red Cross was almost meaningless, I know I want to do something to make a difference, I just don't know what. I will let life point me it the right direction, I work hard for my goals, but I have also learned not to try to force destiny and to let life take its natural course, believing that The Supreme will assist me in my journey.

Blessing to ALL who suffer around the world.


Posted by Alessio Aguirre at September 11, 2002 04:58 PM

I'll never forget the Buckingham Palace tribute with the coldstream (?) band playing the star spangled banner.

Fuck the french. Fuck Iraq. Fuck the Germans. fuck belgium. fuck the poorer than mississippi swedes. fuck the eu. fuck all appeasers everywhere, and may they join neville chamberlin in hell drinking the blood of innocents drop by fucking drop. fuck the antisemitic europeans with their palestinian chic. fuck arafat. fuck the un. fuck them all.

america, the aussies, and england, shoulder to shoulder. to the last man.


Posted by steve at September 11, 2002 04:59 PM

Thanks, folks. It is appreciated.


Posted by *** Dave at September 11, 2002 04:59 PM

Thank you, friends.


Posted by Kevin in Dallas, TX at September 11, 2002 04:59 PM

I can't say exactly why, but of all the acts of kindness following 9/11, the one that touched me the most was your Queen playing our national anthem. It wasn't a flowery speech. I was just a simple act of kindness and reasurrance that we were not alone in our darkest hour. It was also an unmistakable statement to the rest of the world of where you stood in time of need. Thank you from my heart.


"I do not wish to treat friendships daintily, but with the roughest courage. When they are real, they are not glass threads or frost-work, but the solidest thing we know."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson


Posted by Eric Neumann at September 11, 2002 04:59 PM

Thank you, friends.


Posted by Dave D. at September 11, 2002 05:01 PM

Many thanks to our British brethren. The United States truly has no better friend in the world than Britain.


Posted by Robert Prather at September 11, 2002 05:01 PM

Thank you all for your thoughfulness and prayers ! Despite adversity, England has always been a source of inspiration and strength and friendship to us (US), and once again you have shown your courage in standing up with your friends and allies. We will never forget - what happened on 9/11/01, and - your friendship and good wishes ! Bless you all, always !


Posted by Noel Jenkins at September 11, 2002 05:02 PM

Thanks for this, and thanks to those who observed the moment of silence. It is moving and very much appreciated.


Posted by John - NYC at September 11, 2002 05:02 PM

The strength of our country is our people--who have come from all the countries of the world. But what holds us together and makes America a great country is out living, breathing Constitution and our system of Common Law. For that, we owe England.
I think I can speak for all of us when I say, "Thank you England for all you have done for us. There will never be a truer friend than you."


Posted by Peggy O'Neil at September 11, 2002 05:03 PM

I'll never forget how I felt when I heard the Star Spangled Banner being played at Buckingham Palace last year. That's the same feeling I'm getting right now, looking at these simple signs made by people across an ocean, many of whom have probably never set foot on American soil yet still weep in sympathy with us.

America will never forget how you have stood beside us, unflinching. Thank you, England.


Posted by Price Horn at September 11, 2002 05:03 PM

Brothers in Arms...


Posted by Randy at September 11, 2002 05:04 PM

Thank you, England.

And thank you for posting this.


Posted by michele at September 11, 2002 05:04 PM

Thank you UK. We were there for you, you are there for us, no other country has as great a friend as we do.
Long live the Anglosphere!


Posted by Kyle at September 11, 2002 05:05 PM

It's so hard to explain. I live miles to the south of all these tragedies in a quiet little town in South Carolina. I listen over the Internet to a radio station 2,000 miles away in Austin Texas. They have been playing commemorative programming (this is Public Radio -- in some ways like the BBC), first from the news service, then with music.

The news reports have included the reading of the names of those who died at each site. Staggeringly moving. Daniel Schorr, who at age 80+ is one of the real veterans of broadcasting, had a catch in his throat as he reported on the reading at Ground Zero. I heard the widow of the pilot of Flight 93 (the one that the passengers forced to crash in Pennsylvania), and her tears were shared with mine.

And now, here on this site, I see the breadth of the generosity of the British spirit. "There'll be bluebirds over..", "When the Lights Go on Over London", "We never closed" -- those were the legacies of London's experience day after day in WW2. You've paid your dues. You have a right to feel you should be allowed to be passengers during our grief, but that isn't your way. Your way is to reach out with a hand of fellowship and love.

Thank you.


Posted by Dave Birley at September 11, 2002 05:05 PM

As an afterthought, in the present time I happen to be reading a book about American History, the book should say American/Great Britain History, for our nations have been linked together since they were nothing but a dream.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this memorial, God Bless you all.


Posted by Alessio Aguirre at September 11, 2002 05:05 PM

Hello,

Your messages are greatfully and appreciatively recieved. May this find you well and safe.


Posted by Paul C. Perkins at September 11, 2002 05:06 PM

You know, the media and the international politicians are so intent on making Americans think that Europeans hate us, and making Europeans think they should hate Americans, it is enough to make a grown American cry when he sees warm sentiments such as those on this site. I was raised to believe that the British were America's loyal and steadfast friends. The wars of 1776 and 1812 have long since been buried by the brotherhood forged in WWI and WWII and the Cold War. After 9/11 I was extremely shocked and hurt to read so many hostile comments directed at the USA from abroad, especially the UK. But I have since reached the conclusion that the media of Europe don't know a damn thing about what goes on in the hearts of the average Brit. If the signs in those shop windows, and Tony Blair's willingness to defy his own party and the America-haters in British government, are an accurate indication, then the UK's heart and soul still strongly holds hands with the USA's heart and soul. As an American, I want to thank all UK citizens who stand with us on the anniversary of perhaps our greatest national tragedy.


Posted by Brad R. Torgersen at September 11, 2002 05:07 PM

I believed it of you all along. Thank you, brothers and sisters.


Posted by speedwell at September 11, 2002 05:08 PM

May the good lord bless you and keep you.

May God make his face to shine upon you.


Posted by Parker at September 11, 2002 05:18 PM

After having subjected myself to a particularly odious BBC World News Hour this morning on the way to work, I give my heartfelt thanks for this reminder of the spirit of the real England.

Thank you so much.


Posted by Porphyrogenitus at September 11, 2002 05:19 PM

Thank you, a thousand times, thank you. I've loved Great Britain and its people for many years. My ancestors came from Scotland and England. Tony Blair's stand in the face of criticism and these spontaneous acts by the people have meant more to me than I could say. For what small worth it may mean to you, know that you've touched my heart and I appreciate this support so very, very much.

God bless the people of England.


Posted by Bill Peschel at September 11, 2002 05:20 PM

God save the Queen, God Bless America.

The USA and Great Britain are the only nations with both the means and the will to do what must be done to make the world safer.

Mr. BLair's speech yesterday was a monumental piece of prose. Simple and direct. My 14-year old son immediately grasped precisely what he was saying.


Posted by Dave at September 11, 2002 05:20 PM

In my college's International Politics class, my usually cynical professor always intoned, "The US government does not have 'friends', it has 'interests'".
But then he'd always add: "Except for the British, they are our friends".
How true.


Posted by Jonathan Carter at September 11, 2002 05:20 PM

When this happened I felt like a stupid because of doing anything...
My school friends didn´t care about this attacks and I felt I was the only fucking person in Argentina who did care...
I was very worried about my family in the United States and I couldn´t do anything to know if they were ok...
It is today that I pray for nothing else to happen to that beautiful country and for my family living there to be ok...


Posted by Gastón González Abad at September 11, 2002 05:22 PM

Thank you.


Posted by Robert Bauer at September 11, 2002 05:23 PM

I promised myself I wouldn't get all weepy today, but after reading all those signs and seeing the support of the British, I couldn't help it. I'm proud to call you true friends of America. You're support is VERY much appreciated.


Posted by Chris at September 11, 2002 05:25 PM

What a tribute to the character of the ordinary
Englishman. What a silent slap at the lack of
character of the ordinary English journalist,
many of whom appear to this American to be trying
their best to depict their country as a hollowed-out
cinder.

Obviously, they missed the real story.


Posted by Harry Eagar at September 11, 2002 05:26 PM

IT'S A SAD COMMENTARY ON THE REST OF THE WORLD WHEN IT'S ALWAYS EVIDENT THAT THE ONLY COUNTRIES THAT CAN BE RELIED UPON TO DETER TERORIST NATIONS ARE THE USA AND IT'S ONLY TRUE ALLY, GREAT BRITAIN.


Posted by CHARLES SUMID at September 11, 2002 05:27 PM

My father's division fought with the British in Europe.
He always said that for class and guts the Brits set a standard hard to reach.
Clearly, though, it's worth the effort.


Posted by Richard Aubrey at September 11, 2002 05:29 PM

Thank you for your effort to let us know our friends true felings. It is the people of our two great countries that make them great. Please try to insure that these expressions from both sides of the Atlantic are brought to Tony Blair's attention so that he is strenghtened in his resolve. He needs to know that he reflects his citizens and does his nation proud without regard to the chattering class's misguided views.

As William F. Buckley said "I would rather be governed by the first 100 names in the Boston phone book than the faculty of Harvard". If our leaders will only reflect the character and strength of our citizens the war on terror will be prosecuted to a successful conclusion. I have no doubt that a few days into the attack that must come, the Euroweenies will jump on the bandwagon, but we will remeber those who were there all the way.


Posted by Bob Ellis at September 11, 2002 05:33 PM

THANK YOU, our beloved Britain, from the bottom of our aching hearts.


Posted by Suzanne Ashley at September 11, 2002 05:33 PM

To the English people--

It's been a tough year for all of us. But on behalf of all America, I think I can say this: We have learned who our friends are, and we will never forget it.

God bless all of you.


Posted by Andrew Solovay at September 11, 2002 05:37 PM

Thank you, and God bless.


Posted by Dave Trowbridge at September 11, 2002 05:38 PM

God Bless Great Britain!


Posted by Sean Roper at September 11, 2002 05:39 PM

To our dear friends in Britain,

Thank you for your show of support and sympathy today. America has never been stronger, and today we realize that our strength, in part, comes from our friends.

Love from NYC,

Paul


Posted by Paul Klenk at September 11, 2002 05:43 PM

Thank you, Britons. This means alot to us here in America.


Posted by Alo Konsen at September 11, 2002 05:44 PM

I got through the post and pictures OK, but then read the Tolkien quote from Michael Drout and absolutely lost it. I'm still crying a little bit, but one quote deserves another:

"Other evils there are that may come .... Yet it is not our part to master all the tides of the world, but to do what is in us for the succour of those years wherein we are set, uprooting the evil in the fields that we know, so that those who live after may have clean earth to till."

Thank you all for standing with us on this darkest of anniversaries. It means more to me than I know how to say.


Posted by Jay Manifold at September 11, 2002 05:44 PM

I was in Wales 10 years ago for my freind Mark's wedding. His wife to be was born there and wanted to be married there so her grandfather could attend. We were standing on the stairs of the curch in uniform (US Navy). An older gentleman went by on a bicycle, stopped looked at us and came back. He asked if we were US Navy personel. When we said yes he said he wanted to thank us for some US sailors who had saved him form the North Atlantic when his ship was torpedoed in WW II. He said he owed his life to those men. I think we can consider the scales even now. God Bless Great Britian.


Posted by Bill Nixom at September 11, 2002 05:44 PM

Thank God [and I mean that literally] that the British, the real British, are still people of sense and strength. Thanks for showing us the truth.


Posted by Rev. Reed Rocket at September 11, 2002 05:48 PM

America has no greater ally than Great Britain.


Posted by Drake at September 11, 2002 05:49 PM

"Special relationship", indeed. Good show, England.


Posted by Glen Johnstone at September 11, 2002 05:51 PM

Britain and America have stood shoulder to shoulder on the firing line for a long time now. I am glad we shall march on together at least a little longer. The Euroweenies who would Europeanize Great Britain have thus far failed. Thank God for that. Thank you to the British people and Prime Minister Blair for being friends and allies when it counts.
On to Baghdad.


Posted by Brian Dunn at September 11, 2002 05:52 PM

Reading op-ed after op-ed from rags like the Guardian, the Mirror, and the Independant on a regular basis, I sometimes think Britain is a lost cause. Nice to be reminded, though, that the chattering class doesn't speak for the average Brit. Thank you for this, and thanks to those who put up those signs. It's reassuring to see that the spirit of Winston Churchill is still alive and well in the UK.


Posted by Rene Ferrer at September 11, 2002 05:53 PM

My grandfather, who died before my birth, was born in Belfast, and fought with the British Army (Royal Irish Fusiliers) in WWI before emigrating to the US and becoming a citizen here. Irish by birth though he may have been, my mom said he would often tell her "You can always depend on the Brits". Amen.


Posted by Carol in CA at September 11, 2002 05:56 PM

God Bless the lives and hearts of people like you and keep you safe.


Posted by Trish Burke at September 11, 2002 05:58 PM

Bravo to you all! The US will always stand with the UK. My father was born in Sheffield so I have always had an appreciation of my roots. The ocean may be wide but we are close in spirit. May good fortune be upon you all!


Posted by Jim Sellers at September 11, 2002 05:59 PM

A people greater than their governement.


Posted by Greg Hlatky at September 11, 2002 06:00 PM

To our friends across the Atlantic in Great Britain: Thank you from the bottom of my heart.


Posted by Jay Caruso at September 11, 2002 06:01 PM

It shouldn't suprise us in the US that there are decent people in the UK and around the world.

Thank You


Posted by Miichael Wagner at September 11, 2002 06:02 PM

God, nothing to add but another pathetic drop of gratitude. Thank you, thank you!


Posted by Michelle Dulak at September 11, 2002 06:02 PM

I'll just second Hlatky. Thanks, cousins!


Posted by Kevin McGehee at September 11, 2002 06:02 PM

Thank you, Great Britain. It's good to know that our cousins across the Pond are on our side, no matter what the tabloids might say.


Posted by BarCodeKing at September 11, 2002 06:05 PM

"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers,
for he who sheds his blood with me shall
be my brother..."


Posted by Bev Durbin at September 11, 2002 06:06 PM

More people in England (not all English people) talking:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsa/n5ctrl/events02/sept11/56/vox/london.ram


Posted by David Steven at September 11, 2002 06:06 PM

God Bless the British. Like any true friends, we may have ourdisagreements, but our two nations care deeply for one another. God bless the Britsh.


Posted by Eric Elnicki at September 11, 2002 06:08 PM

What Michael Drout said. You can't beat Tolkein for a quote on fellowship.

Thank you. It's these small, sincere things that count much more than a meaningless grand gesture ever could.


Posted by David Perron at September 11, 2002 06:10 PM

Thank you, England. Thank you, Perry. You know that we will always be there for you, too, right?


Posted by Bill Quick at September 11, 2002 06:10 PM

yeah, well to be frank that aint really no big surprise to me. the brits and aussies were always the only ones who have ever been worth a rats ass when the shit really hits the fan. semper fi.


Posted by Horus of Hierakonopolis at September 11, 2002 06:11 PM

Thank you, Great Britain, for always standing with us.


Posted by Justin Weiss at September 11, 2002 06:13 PM

You guys are the absolute best...


Posted by Suman Palit at September 11, 2002 06:14 PM

When Britain underwent its own hour of peril as it was pelted with bombs from Luftwaffe bombers, the then-Vice President of the United States, Henry Wallace, went to Great Britain, and gave a speech with Prime Minister Churchill in attendance. Vice President Wallace's quote from the Book of Ruth is worth repeating here and now:

Wither thou goest, we go also.
Wither thou lodgest, we lodge as well.
Thy people shall be our people.
Thy God, our God.
Even unto the end.

God Bless America. God Save Queen Elizabeth II.

And thank you for this. In America, we remember our friends.


Posted by Pejman Yousefzadeh at September 11, 2002 06:15 PM

Thank you, and Long Live The Anglosphere!


Posted by John B. at September 11, 2002 06:16 PM

Thank you for your kindness.


Posted by E. Rush Carskadden at September 11, 2002 06:20 PM

I can't think of anything to say but "thank you."


Posted by sulizano at September 11, 2002 06:21 PM

Many of my ancestors were early settlers of America from England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. Some fought for America and some for Great Britain during the American Revolutionary War.

The sentiments of unity expressed in the 9/11 remembrance posted here touched my soul deeply and in effect re-united my ancestors in one common cause - the cause of freedom and right.

Thank you! God Bless America and God Save the Queen!


Posted by Ted Blanchard at September 11, 2002 06:28 PM

As an American I am proud to call the people of England our true friend, compatriot, and compeer.
This daughter of the South thanks you for your brave stance and kind regard.


Posted by Elaine at September 11, 2002 06:31 PM

Just reading this...............
And also just wanted to say thanks, I know some Canadians that we also saddened by the events that happened 1 year ago today, and it's nice to know that other people care.

God Bless.


Posted by Becky L Roth at September 11, 2002 06:36 PM

Thank you for reminding me.


Posted by Andrea Harris at September 11, 2002 06:37 PM

I just sent this via email to a good friend who lives outside of London:
"Believe me, we know England is there, with us, joined at the hip. We're not fools. We read the world press everyday, and we know who is with us and who is not. It means a lot to each of us, I promise you.

Tell everyone over there we said this: Thank You."


Posted by Paul A'Barge at September 11, 2002 06:37 PM

super sweet, thanks so much for taking these pictures and thanks to our friends in the UK


Posted by tony at September 11, 2002 06:37 PM

I watched a soccer game on TV yesterday, Arsenal vs Manchester City, played in London. The 40,000 in attendance and all the players and officials held a minute of silence, and I mean total and noble silence. I know it is being repeated in many, many places, and that there are many, many who care deeply for the losses suffered in the US. God Bless the last best place on earth.


Posted by Paul Snaith at September 11, 2002 06:37 PM

I agree, but Thank You almost seems to be missing something. But, I will say "THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
to you all.


Posted by Becky L Roth at September 11, 2002 06:39 PM

Thank you for your immensely touching tribute to the victims - we in the USA are fully aware of how many British citizens were murdered that day and have not forgotten them


Posted by Edward Ryan at September 11, 2002 06:41 PM

If the attacks had happened to any other country in the world our sword would be theirs.

Sad that so few can say the same to us.

Thank you.


Posted by Mick at September 11, 2002 06:41 PM

"The identity of purpose and persistence of resolve prevailing throughout the English-speaking word will, more than any other single fact, determine the way of life which will be open to the generations to come and perhaps to the centuries which follow our own."

--Winston Churchill, January 9, 1941

Still true.

God save the Queen and God bless America.


Posted by Alex Bensky at September 11, 2002 06:42 PM

God Bless You All


Posted by Matthew Asnip at September 11, 2002 06:42 PM

Thank's to all our friends in Britain for your wonderful support.


Posted by Mike Lutz at September 11, 2002 06:44 PM

Thank you, England.


Posted by Chris at September 11, 2002 06:44 PM

Thank you for your condolences. I too have been deeply hurt by what I have read in the European press. I hope that the people of Britain do not feel the way the media portrays them. I do, however, not know what to make of a recent poll that showed that a majority of Brits put the blame for 9/11 on the victims, among other troubling things.

All I can say is thank you for your sympathies but America needs friends that show solidarity with the living, not just sympathy for the dead. I hope the British people can be that friend. Thank you.


Posted by Antoinette at September 11, 2002 06:46 PM

At this time when so many think the proper response to 9/11 is to parade fluff, happiness and "understanding," it is right that the British guide the way to a proper recognition of the events of this sad day. We will never forget, and those who know why this was done will never let their anger wane.

As did the Jews regarding Auswitch, we should also do: the images and villians of this day should be held forever before us lest we forget, and lest we let our anger mull to the point of complacency and acquiesence.


Posted by Dwight at September 11, 2002 06:49 PM

Thank you. What an obviously heartfelt expression of empathy and sympathy. Thank you for posting those pictures. Now, stop making me cry.


Posted by Caitlin at September 11, 2002 06:49 PM

Rule Britannia.
God Bless America.


Posted by Damian Penny at September 11, 2002 06:50 PM

Once again The British People have proven that they know who are the thier Real Allies. I was born in London to an American Mother and a British Father. My Father lived thru the Blitz and my Grandmother worked as Nurse all teh while my Grandfather served in the Royal Navy. We moved to the USA in the late 70's. My life is that of an American and my understanding of being an American and the Love of a Free People and an Open Society is in no doubt due to my being First an "Englishman".


Posted by Russ at September 11, 2002 06:53 PM

Thank you Great Britian and all the other countries that have stood by our side through this terrible act. Our soil was where the attack took place, but it was an attack on all the countries represented in the "World" Trade Center.

I write this short poem to remember...

Last year we were attacked as one
Others were sent to shed blood on themselves
By yet a man who can only hide
For he is a coward, not a leader
For he is a manipulator, not a honorable man
For he is a failure, not a victor
From that day forth we stand tall together
Something he had tried to knock down

For those who have given their lives
They never knew how important they really are
Not to just their families, but to all around the world
That day will never go unnoticed
A heavy sigh, a cry, a moment of silence
You will always be in our hearts and prayers

God Bless Us
Who ever your God may be...


Posted by Ellen of the "United States" at September 11, 2002 06:56 PM

Never let it be said that our two great countries shall not stand as one - in the darkest of nights and the deepest of lows, we shall hang together against the forces of evil and fight until the last free man is standing in defense of our two great nations and the last drop of blood has run from his dying veins. Together we must repel those that would question our resolve by attacking our shores quickly, forcefully and without fear of bloodshed to guarantee our freedom and to send a message to the world that individual liberty is the ultimate goal of a civilized world and to lose it is a fate worse than death. We must never forget our forefathers in both countries who made significant contributions to the freedom of the individual that we all enjoy today - separated by distance - but together in spirit and desire for the pursuit of liberty and individual happiness. We cannot forget the sacrifices that were made in order for us and our future generations to live peacefully free - we must always stand together - two nations with one voice - and loudly proclaim...

OUR FREEDOM WILL NOT BE TAKEN FROM US!

God bless the survivors & their lost ones.


Posted by Indy! at September 11, 2002 06:58 PM

Thank you, Britain - as always, our enduring ally


Posted by Steve in Fort Worth, Tx at September 11, 2002 06:59 PM

A year after the wanton death and destruction inflicted in the name of Allah, the photos depicting the memorial moments of silence from the grass roots of the U.K., offset the photos taken last year in other countries depicting the celebration of the blow struck against the United States of America!

The U. K. does not forget the outcome of the appeasement of Hitler; it almost engulfed them - as it engulfed many European countries - which evidently have forgotten.

Appeasement is submission.

Once again, the U.S.A. and the U.K, together, will defend our freedom and sovereignty from tyrannical aggression - thereby also insuring the appeasers' freedom.


Posted by Linda Willingham at September 11, 2002 07:03 PM

Words can't express.

Thank you for standing with us.


Posted by Isaac Clemens at September 11, 2002 07:05 PM

Evidence of the great heart of a great people. Thank you.


Posted by Quana at September 11, 2002 07:11 PM

Thank you! America has no truer friend in this world. I have been reminded of this too many times to count throughout the past year. From the large and instantaneous outpouring of emotion to the playing of "The Star Spangled Banner" at the changing of the guard to Tony Blair's steadfast support I and many others have been left forever grateful. When I rant about "those spineless Europeans" I never have the English in mind. I want to say also that the UK will never have to doubt our friendship we will always be there in your hour of need.


Posted by Ralph at September 11, 2002 07:14 PM

Thank you for this. For some of us in the United States, the obsessive media coverage just seems to overshadow the real purpose of remembering this anniversary. I know that it has made me want to turn off my radio, shut off my TV and crawl under a rock to avoid it, just so I can remember in silence all the things we lost and all the things we learned.

You've shown me that not everyone has forgotten what this is really about. I appreciate that more than I can say.

Thank you.


Posted by Cari at September 11, 2002 07:21 PM

Words fail. The people of Great Britain never do. Thank you from a grateful nation. May God bless America and may God save the Queen.


Posted by Chris Grier at September 11, 2002 07:21 PM

Thank you, to all of you in the U.K., for your support and assistance through the years.

The "special relationship" that we Americans enjoy with you, as well as the partnerships and alliances that we share with other former foes like Germany, Japan, Italy, Russia, Mexico, Spain, and others, proves that reconciliation, friendship, and interdependence can grow from the bloody, horrible experiences of war.

No one wants war, least of all Americans. Although not always peaceful, we are always peace-loving. We always hope that dialogue, negotiation, and diplomacy will peacefully resolve conflict.

Unfortunately, there are those in the world, tyrants like Napoleon, Hitler, Stalin, Saddam Hussein, and Osama bin Laden, who do not share these cultural values, who view inaction with contempt and appeasement as a license for further aggression and violence.

Although we may pretentiously consider ourselves more "sophisticated" and "enlightened" than they are, we are often forced to communicate with them in the only language they understand and respect, power and violence, when diplomacy fails. To do otherwise reflects a condescending and presumptuous effort on our part to impose our Western values and ideals on their culture.

"Peace at any cost" ultimately comes at too high a price. Most often, countless lives and resources are saved when a smaller conflict is "nipped in the bud" before it becomes a larger conflagration, dealt with decisively and completely by the world community.

The challenge we face today is balancing our idealism with realism. We must all strive to make the world into the idealistic place we'd like to see, where peaceful conflict resolution is the norm, while protecting ourselves in the reality that still exists in the world.

Please remember that in the weeks and months ahead, as we are criticized for being "unilateralist".


Posted by Frank Collins at September 11, 2002 07:22 PM

This gesture has served to strengthen and reaffirm my opinion of our English allies....our friends....our brothers.


Posted by Mike Tidwell at September 11, 2002 07:23 PM

This is indeed the real Britain I experienced when I lived in London for a time. And the real America thanks you for it.


Posted by The Dodd at September 11, 2002 07:26 PM

Tony Blair talks about America and the "special relationship". That is pure non-sense; it is the British people who are special to America and Americans.


Posted by Jim at September 11, 2002 07:27 PM

You simply made me bawl out - such simple acts of commen men collected together are more moving than anything shown on TV. Thanks for taking the time to do this.


Posted by Mike (US) at September 11, 2002 07:27 PM

England has a heart that words find hard to express. She tells us plenty by her actions. Immeasurable gratitude to our friend and ally for the support they give us today and every day. We have not forotten that you too lost many loved ones a year ago today.

God Bless England....God Bless America....


Posted by Connie in Texas at September 11, 2002 07:28 PM

We here in the USA thank everyone for standing by us in these past 12 months, especially those of you from England. There has not been any country as supportive to us as England has been. Thank you.


Posted by Steve at September 11, 2002 07:31 PM

"Blest be the tie that binds our hearts...." The thoughfulness of the people of Britain has not gone unnoticed here in America. Many thanks for your support. God Bless your country and may our friendship continue to flourish.


Posted by Constance at September 11, 2002 07:33 PM

God bless the Mother Country, and God bless Tony Blair for standing firmly with us.


Posted by Craig in San Jose, CA at September 11, 2002 07:35 PM

One year ago, we learned that moral relativism is no longer a luxury we can afford.

Unfortunately, many of our most prominent voices (on both sides of the Atlantic), cannot seem to perceive this from their perches of privelege. They see no significant difference between a life stolen and the one who steals it.

This outpouring of compassion and respect shows that those of us who must "work for a living" have far more perceptual clarity and wisdom than our alleged intellectual "betters" in the chattering classes.

Thank you all! God save your Queen, preserve your PM, and bless America.


Posted by Rich Casebolt at September 11, 2002 07:42 PM

Thank you. We won't forget.


Posted by Kathy K at September 11, 2002 07:45 PM

As an American, I appreciate the show of support by what seem to be perfectly decent Britons. As a Jew, however, I'm still not certain I want to take back my vow never to visit England. I have heard far too many reports of anti-Semitism there, and though I am not particularly religious, I disdain to visit lands in which I cannot wear a Star of David pendant without having to take shit for it. I will relax thoroughly when Tony Blair castigates the idiotarians of the U.K. for their Judenhass and their anti-Zionism as well as for their anti-Americanism.


Posted by Reginleif the Valkyrie at September 11, 2002 07:47 PM

I have friends in Britain, France, Denmark, Japan, Taiwan and other countries -- person-to-person. But America has a friend in Britain -- nation-to-nation. I was moved by the playing of the Star Spangled Banner at Buckingham palace a year ago, and I am moved again today reading these simple words of support.

Thank you, one and all.


Posted by Dale at September 11, 2002 07:50 PM

Throughout history, there have been those that harbor darkness within them, who would gladly murder others because of differences of religion, ethnicity, personal views and so on.
I was in New York visiting on September 10th, and I remember seeing the WTC for the last time that morning. I also happen to live near the Pentagon. That morning was one of horror, shock and disbelief to me.
To the people of Great Britain, and all others who have stood by us as we mourned and buried our dead, I would like to extend my thanks to you and gratitude that you have all resigned yourselves to resist the dark in men's hearts along with so many others. God bless us all.


Posted by Lyle J. at September 11, 2002 07:52 PM

Blessings be on the wonderful people of Great Britain, the normal folks. It means a lot to know that you are with us, friends.


Posted by Z at September 11, 2002 07:55 PM

As President Bush said himself, America has no truer friend than Great Britain. Thank you.


Posted by Emily at September 11, 2002 07:57 PM

There is no feeling better, when in a tight spot, than knowing that someone has your back. Thank you to the people of England, Austrailia, and New Zealand.


Posted by David Paglia at Sept