Today marks 17 years since one of the darkest days in American history, when a series of coordinated terrorist attacks on symbols of national prosperity and military might claimed nearly 3,000 lives, shattered our illusory senses of security and innocence, and launched the country into a new era of perpetual warfare from which it has yet to emerge.

And the president of the United States is pretty fuckin' fired up for it.

In the days that followed 9/11, incredible stories of courage began to emerge from the midst of this awful tragedy. First responders and civilians alike made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of the greater good, and we shall forever remember them as the heroes they are.

And the president of the United States is pretty stoked to do some remembering.

Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

The sharpest edges of the memories of that terrible morning may dull a bit with each year that passes. But its anniversary is always an occasion for somber, dignified reflection: about where we were, how we felt, what we lost, and who we are as a people today.

And the president of the United States would like to give dignified reflection a big ol' thumbs up.

Evan Vucci/AP

Best of luck to all!