Reflecting twenty years later on the devastating attacks on September 11, 2001, Trail Life USA CEO, Mark Hancock reflects, “The attacks on 9/11 were horrific. We must never forget the lives that were lost and the families that were destroyed. Nor should we ever forget the brave men and women who put their lives on the line for the sake of their fellow Americans. We must remember the sense we had of being an American, of being united, and celebrating our union together as One Nation Under God.”
"On that day, in the midst of the worst evil, we saw the greatest good. In those moments of terror and heartwrenching loss, the heart of our nation was revealed. We saw the best in men. Men willing to step up and risk everything to save others. Men who embodied John 15:13, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." That is what masculine strength is. Masuline strength is bravery harnessed by wisdom, action tethered by self-restraint, self-assertion marked by self-control, and honor clothed in humility. Those are the things we must refect on and must teach our sons and boys in our community."
"In his 'Letter to Boys on Manhood,' Theodore Roosevelt wrote, ‘No one can be a good American unless he is a good citizen, and every boy ought to train himself so that as a man he will be able to do his full duty to the community …[to] act in a way that will give them a country to be proud of.’ This is a philosophy we at Trail Life have lived by since our inception in 2014. It is fundamentally important that we instill character, honor, faith, and a sense of duty to God and others. These are key foundations in the mission of Trail Life USA."
“At Trail Life, through outdoor adventure and intentional mentoring we challenge boys to grow to become courageous men of character. We think that the drive and daring of boys is exactly what’s responsible for producing winning and determined, respectful, honoring men, and we are proud to foster that in young men across America.”
Trail Life USA is the premier national character development organization for young men, producing godly and responsible husbands, fathers, and citizens. Trail Life's mission is to guide generations of courageous young men to honor God, lead with integrity, serve others, and experience outdoor adventure. Troops exist in all 50 states and are growing as Trail Life USA expands around the country. Find a Troop for your son today, or Start a Troop in your community!
