Staff ReportsThis year has been a curious one when it comes to reflecting on losses. Conservatives are reveling in electoral victories and taking a moment to rejoice in the departures of certain less-than-upstanding figures. The world is undoubtedly better off without the likes of Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas, Hezbollah’s Hassan Nasrallah, and Iran’s Ebrahim Raisi, all of whom dedicated their lives to plotting the downfall of Israel, America, and, evidently, good taste. The deaths of these men are not a cause for sorrow but rather an occasion for celebration. With these nefarious players now out of the game, it feels like the political world just got a little bit lighter.
Nevertheless, it’s worth pausing to remember those who left behind a legacy of inspiration and positivity. Take Bob Beckwith, for example. Although he may not be a household name, Beckwith embodied American resilience in the face of chaos in the days following September 11, 2001. As a veteran New York City firefighter who had spent three decades serving his city, he momentarily stood shoulder to shoulder with President George W. Bush atop a firetruck—an iconic symbol that rallied a nation mourning its losses. The interaction is seared into the nation’s memory and served as a legendary reminder of America’s unwillingness to be cowed by terrorists. Those were the days when even taking a photo with the President could inspire hope and spirit.
Every conservative should be celebrating right now because they put all of us through hell and we would not have won this without waking up America. Special shout out to Scott Pressler. pic.twitter.com/Of3zVkdj44
— Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) November 6, 2024
Then there’s country music sensation Toby Keith. In the wake of 9/11, Keith churned out “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” in a mere 20 minutes, a track that would become an anthem of American pride and a warning to adversaries everywhere. Keith, proudly wearing the label of “redneck patriot,” resonated with millions, capturing the essence of an America unwilling to back down. In a world where authenticity is strangely deemed controversial, Keith didn’t shy away from embracing his roots, making listeners smile while also reminding them of the force that is, essentially, America.
In political circles, Ted Olson also made an indelible mark. During the tragic events of September 11, he received a fateful call from his wife, who was aboard one of the hijacked flights. Olson, a notable lawyer and titan of the conservative movement, could have easily succumbed to despair, yet he chose to take action, alerting officials to unfolding events. His contributions to the legal field and support for conservative principles remained steadfast, showcasing a life lived in service to the nation even in the face of personal tragedy.
Richard Allen, who served as President Reagan’s first national security adviser, may not have enjoyed the longest tenure in the spotlight, but he was involved in substantial moments that defined a generation. From coining the term “Reaganauts” to pushing for the inclusion of George H.W. Bush in Reagan’s administration, Allen left behind a legacy worth celebrating. His no-nonsense approach to leaking information could teach many in today’s political climate a thing or two about loyalty and discretion.
Of course, it isn’t just the political heavyweights and entertainers who should be remembered; the realm of conservative activism has also suffered losses this year. Figures like Rich Galen and Bernie Marcus contributed to the conservative cause in profound yet understated ways. Marcus, a co-founder of Home Depot, captured the spirit of American entrepreneurship and warned against the stifling grip of regulations that threaten the very foundation of innovation. He advocated for businesses to maintain focus rather than dive into social issues, a perspective many could benefit from as they navigate today’s increasingly complex landscape.
As the world bids farewell to these notable figures, it becomes clear—the builder, the creator, and the protector are the true heroes. Their commitment to freedom, creativity, and the American way serve as a stark contrast to the enemies of civilization who are no longer around to lament. In a time of reflection, it’s clear that the builders and patriots will always overshadow those who sought our demise. It’s the legacy of resilience and positivity from the likes of Beckwith, Keith, Olson, Allen, and Marcus that deserves not just remembrance but celebration. The world certainly looks brighter when focusing on those who aim to uplift humanity rather than tear it down.
