Everyone recalls where they were when hijacked passenger planes crashed into the Twin Towers on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001; this is especially true for the people of New Jersey and New York City.

Of the 2,977 people who died that day, roughly 300 of whom were of Italian descent.

Many of the fallen were Italian American policeman and firefighters, who ran to aid those that were either trapped or trying to evacuate the World Trade Center.

Few could have anticipated the Towers’ imminent collapse, but the truth is: if the first responders knew then what we know now, they still would’ve gone in — and that’s what made them American.

Victims ages 2 to 85 were killed, and the attack inflicted $10 billion in infrastructure damage.

Despite the catastrophe, it was a day defined by American resolve.

We were battered but united, and we held on — together; and 20 years later, hope still lights the way.

Shine on.