They were ordinary Americans who made an extraordinary choice, and took a stand that changed history

SHANKSVILLE, Pa. - Over the last several days in Shanksville, covering the dedication of the Flight 93 National Memorial and 9/11 commemorative events, I have heard some of the most eloquent words ever spoken coming from presidents, Flight 93 family members and ordinary citizens who all came here to say "thank you."

It has been inspiring to see the strength of so many people who have turned their terrible, irreplaceable loss to a lesson in the power of faith, healing and resilience.

Flight 93's story began as a horrific event in a Pennsylvania field. It is now a field of honor, one that so many are saying exudes a profound presence. The Flight 93 National Memorial ensures that their story will be experienced again and again through generations.

One of my favorite quotes of the weekend came from President George W. Bush who said, "We each have a duty to serve a cause larger than ourselves."

Experiencing the Flight 93 Memorial invites people to ask, as Gov. Tom Ridge said, "What if? Could I?"

This now peaceful place will quietly ask all who see it those questions, nudging us to look deeper as we hope to find that kind of courage and determination inside ourselves.