There are moments in everyone’s lives that do not fade; no matter how much time passes the details remain sharp. Weddings, graduations, births, and deaths usually top the list of things we recall with great clarity because they mean so much to us personally.

Folks a bit older than I am can usually tell me where they were and what they were doing when John F. Kennedy was assassinated in November of 1963. I was working as a bartender the day that the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded in the sky in 1986, and after seeing the camera pan over the puzzled faces of the children who were there to see their teacher, Mrs. McAuliffe, make history I could barely finish my shift.

For NASCAR fans, there have been several events that brought such excitement that they will be remembered forever by many followers of the sport (such as Darrell Waltrip’s Daytona 500 win 1989, or Dale Earnhardt’s win in 1998, both joyously celebrated). Of course, there are the tragedies as well (like the passing of Alan Kulwicki in 1993, or of Dale Earnhardt in 2001, both deeply mourned).

NASCAR fans are known to be spiritual and patriotic, and most stand reverently during the pre-race ceremonies. It raises gooseflesh when a stirring rendition of the National Anthem has been sung, followed closely by a military flyover. You can almost feel the deep appreciation and love of country in the air during those moments.

As many Americans do, I remember exactly what I was doing the day that I turned the TV on, and saw the horrific scenes being broadcasted on September 11, 2001. I didn’t want to believe it; I initially convinced myself that it had to be a Hollywood preview of some kind. When it became obvious that it was for real, I had to sit down or I would have fallen down. What a horrible, horrible catastrophe.

I know in my heart that today there are multitudes of NASCAR fans out there that will be flying their flags, remembering lost Americans, and praying for the men and women that are here and abroad protecting and serving our country.

I know that they, and I, will never, ever forget.