On this day in 2001, 25 years ago, the United States was attacked in a series of terrorist attacks by al-Qaeda, in which hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a fourth plane, United Flight 93, crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania after passengers fought back against their attackers. Nearly 3,000 people were killed, making it the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil. In the aftermath, the nation came together in a powerful display of unity, compassion, and determination. First responders, volunteers, and ordinary citizens showed incredible courage and selflessness. Across the country, people of all backgrounds stood together in support of the victims and their families, and the government took swift action to strengthen national security. The attacks profoundly shaped the nation, but they also revealed the deep resilience and unbreakable spirit of the American people. Today, the day is known as Patriots Day and we remember those lost on 9-11. Please click on the link below to learn more about how you can volunteer your time to help in service to our nation. 9-11 is one of two nationally recognized days of service.

-> america250.org/america-gives/ ... See MoreSee Less

This Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, a day that forever changed our nation and united Americans through extraordinary acts of courage, compassion, and service.

As we pause to remember the lives lost, honor the bravery of first responders, and reflect on the resilience of our communities, we also recognize a legacy that continues to inspire us today: serving one another. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum’s 25th anniversary commemoration invites us to remember, reflect, and learn while carrying forward the spirit of unity that emerged in the aftermath of that day.One meaningful way to honor that legacy is through service.Whether you volunteer at a local food bank, support a veterans organization, mentor a young person, or lend a helping hand in your community, every act of service helps strengthen the bonds that unite us. #America250 #A250AL #america250alabama #americanhistory #Semiquincentennial #OnThisDay #ThisDayInHistory #HistoryNerd #historyforyoungpeple #discovershelbyal #americanvillage_alabama #americanvillage #Alabama #montevallo ... See MoreSee Less

We have a new "Featured Patriot of the Month - James Monroe!

James Monroe was a young participant in the American Revolution, and his experiences during this conflict helped shape his future leadership at the national level. He was born in Virginia in 1758 and was still a teenager when tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain escalated into war. Inspired by the patriot cause, he left college at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg in 1776 to join the Continental Army.Monroe quickly became an officer and showed extraordinary bravery in battle. One of his most notable experiences came during the Battle of Trenton in December 1776. Serving under General George Washington, Monroe helped lead a dangerous nighttime crossing of the Delaware River. He is depicted in the famous painting, Washington Crossing the Delaware, by Emauel Leutze as the soldier holding the flag. During the battle, he was seriously wounded in the shoulder. Despite this injury, his courage earned him recognition and a promotion to lieutenant.After recovering, he continued to serve in the army, though not always on the front lines. He worked as an aide to senior officers and gained experience in leadership and military organization. As the war dragged on, resources became scarce, and Monroe eventually left active military service due to a lack of opportunities for advancement.After stepping away from combat, Monroe remained committed to the Revolution. He became involved in politics and government in Virginia, supporting the ideals of independence and self-governance. His wartime experiences gave him a strong belief in the importance of unity and national strength, ideas that would later influence his presidency.Overall, James Monroe’s role in the American Revolution was marked by bravery, dedication, and growth. Though he began as a young soldier, the lessons he learned during the war helped prepare him for a long career in public service, including becoming the fifth president of the United States. ... See MoreSee Less