
Episode #131
Don Arias on 25 Years Since 9/11
Lieutenant Colonel Don Arias joins Veronica for a heartfelt conversation, reflecting on the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and the harrowing memories of losing his brother, Adam, on that tragic day. As Don delves into his experiences as a New York City firefighter, he recounts his visit to Ground Zero just days after the attacks, highlighting the overwhelming devastation and the emotional weight of walking through the rubble where so many lives were lost. In a poignant discussion, Don shares the moment he learned of Adam’s death, captivated by the chaos of that day and the struggle to connect with loved ones amidst the collapse of communication systems. As he remembers Adam, a newlywed at the time, Don emphasizes the potential that was lost not just for their family, but for the nation—a theme that resonates deeply as he recalls the heroism demonstrated by countless individuals during and after the attacks. The episode also tackles tough questions about justice and the ongoing legal proceedings against those responsible, critiquing the ineffectiveness of political efforts since that day. Don articulates his frustrations with the delayed pursuit of justice for the nearly 3,000 victims, including the political maneuvering that continues to hinder accountability. He reflects on his visits to Guantanamo Bay, expressing disdain for the treatment of the perpetrators while acknowledging the intense burden carried by families of the victims. Amidst grief and anger, there are glimmers of hope as Don considers the sense of national unity that followed 9/11, contrasting it with today’s political atmosphere. In an enlightening exchange, he and Veronica ponder the question: Have we forgotten? With a blend of sorrow and resilience, this episode captures the enduring impact of that fateful day 25 years ago and the ongoing fight for justice, remembrance, and healing. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

