Great American Media and Gary Sinise Reflect on 9/11 Anniversary and Heroism

Honoring Courage: Great American Media's Tribute to 9/11

As the nation prepares to observe the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Great American Media takes a moment to reflect on the profound loss and heroism stemming from that fateful day. The attacks led to the tragic loss of 2,997 lives and left over 6,000 individuals injured, creating a lasting impact on countless lives across the country. This year, the spotlight will particularly shine on the courageous first responders, including firefighters and police officers from the NYPD and FDNY, who selflessly rushed into danger to save others.

Bill Abbott, the CEO of Great American Media, expressed a deep sense of gratitude towards the individuals who displayed extraordinary valor. “As we reflect on the 9/11 anniversary, I am humbled by the selfless courage of first responders who ran toward danger to save others,” he stated. His comments emphasize the enduring legacy of bravery shown by many who stepped forward amid chaos, showcasing the resilience and unity of the American spirit.

In conjunction with this tribute, Great American Media is set to host a special interview feature on their platform, Great American Pure Flix, with none other than Actor and Humanitarian Gary Sinise, the founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation. The exclusive conversation, titled "Exclusive Conversations," will be available on September 10, 2025. During this interview, Sinise will share insights regarding the impact of 9/11 and the ongoing initiatives he champions to support active-duty military members, first responders, and veterans.

Sinise's connection to this community runs deep, rooted in personal experiences that shaped his commitment to advocacy. He recalls how familiarizing himself with Vietnam veterans in his youth influenced his philanthropic pursuits in support of veterans throughout the years. Among the poignant stories shared in the interview, Sinise will narrate the powerful story of how he realized that even simple acts of showing up can profoundly affect those in need, particularly during times of crisis.

The memories of 9/11 continue to inspire reflection and action. Abbott remarked on the heroic narratives that emerged from that day, saying, “Even now, 24 years later, I continue to hear stories of quiet heroism that inspire and humble me.” He recounted the extraordinary Great Boat Lift, in which nearly half a million individuals were evacuated from Manhattan in just nine hours using an unplanned fleet of boats and ferries. He also highlighted the incredible tale of Roselle, the guide dog who helped navigate her blind owner to safety through the chaos of the streets following the attacks. These stories illustrate compassion, bravery, and resilience in the face of significant adversity.

Looking beyond the anniversary, Abbott emphasizes the need to preserve and share the narratives of 9/11 to inspire future generations. He expressed concern that the phrase "Never Forget" could lose its meaning if we do not actively keep the lessons learned from that day alive. At Great American Media, their mission is to honor the principles of faith, family, and community, which continue to resonate strongly even two decades later.

The legacy of yet another anniversary serves as a reminder to cherish and safeguard the values that make America strong. As Abbott shares, it is not just about reflecting on what happened, but relevantly advocating for a united nation that comes together in the face of challenges. Amid numerous tributes and honors, this year’s reflections invite each of us to contribute to preserving an inspiring history of collective courage and compassion.

This upcoming anniversary also serves as a clarion call for everyone to acknowledge the shared sacrifices that have shaped our society in meaningful ways. Great American Media, along with the Gary Sinise Foundation, endeavors to ensure that these powerful stories of heroism live on, motivating us all toward a brighter future infused with hope and unity.