Throwback Thursday: American Strength at World Series Post-9/11

Blackball Bill13 years ago

This Sunday will mark ten years since the infamous attack on the World Trade Center in New York City. It was a tragic moment in history that rocked our country to the core and will never be forgotten. As Americans, we pulled together in search for the strength to carry on, and we desperately needed a leader to make us believe we would prevail. Somewhat ironically, just weeks after 9/11 the New York Yankees were in the World Series, and President George W. Bush went to Yankee Stadium to remind us, as Americans, that no matter what happens we always stand strong.

It was one of many moments after 9/11 that ensured I would never doubt our country’s ability to recover. I still remember watching this game and seeing W out there on the mound giving the thumbs-up. In a way it was like he was looking every terrorist straight in the eye and saying, “We’re still here you cock sucker.”

All personal ideals and political stances aside, you have to respect the man for the poise he showed that night. That kind of mound presence can’t be taught; you have to be born with it. There are professional pitchers who buckle under the pressure of a bases loaded full count. Imagine the kind of stones it takes to go out there with a bulletproof vest strapped to your chest under a giant Yankees jacket and deliver a strike. Consider the fact that he was warming his arm up on the way off the chopper, had just finished shooting the shit with The Captain himself, and had the weight of an entire country on his shoulders after one of the worst incidents in American history. Giant. Fucking. Stones. That’s what America is all about.

“No matter what the threat may be to us the United States of America will stand strong and will never be intimidated.”