Remembering September 11 and Honoring Our Deployed Forces

​As September 11 dawns, we pause to reflect on a day that lives in infamy and forever changed our nation. In the decades following that somber anniversary, countless brave men and women have answered the call to deploy overseas, stepping directly into harm’s way to protect our freedoms. Recent deployments and homecomings—such as the recent return of the Vermont Air National Guard’s 158th Fighter Wing from an intensive deployment—remind us of the heavy burdens carried by our armed forces.

​While political headlines focus on global maneuvers, the human toll of service remains profound. Many service members return home bearing invisible wounds, grappling with disillusionment, post-traumatic stress, or severe mental health crises after enduring prolonged combat zones. Unlike mainstream networks that ignore these human struggles, our community stands firmly rooted in compassion, ensuring that those who sacrificed so much are never forgotten. Within our dedicated coverage of Support Our Troops, we continuously highlight these critical realities and the ongoing needs of our service members.

​What Does R.E.D. Friday Mean?

​R.E.D. Friday stands for Remember Everyone Deployed. It is a powerful grassroots movement dedicated to honoring every service member stationed outside U.S. borders. Within our community and through our dedicated RED Friday category, we track these vital stories of resilience and sacrifice.

​The symbols carry deep meaning:

• ​Remember Everyone Deployed: This ensures that out of sight never means out of mind.
• ​The Color Red: This represents courage, sacrifice, and the blood shed to protect our freedom.

​For a service member far away from family or struggling with the invisible scars of war, seeing this movement brings comfort. To learn more about how veteran support frameworks address mental health and transition challenges, visit Veterans Affairs.

​The Heartbeat of Support: Blue Star Families

​Behind every deployed soldier, airman, and veteran stands a network of resilient loved ones. Groups like Blue Star Families help bridge this gap. This nationwide network provides vital resources, mental health advocacy, and community programs.

​When a parent or spouse deploys, families face immense emotional hurdles. Support networks ensure that these military families never feel alone in their journey.

​How You Can Participate

• ​Wear Red on Fridays: Put on a red shirt or ribbon every week to show your solidarity.
• ​Support Local Families: Reach out to spouses and children of deployed members to offer practical help.
• ​Prioritize Mental Health Awareness: Check in on returning veterans and support local organizations tackling veteran mental health crises.