America's County: How two events less than a year apart changed Somerset County forever
Less than a year after United Flight 93 crashed in Somerset County and pulled the small Pennsylvania community onto the international stage, the Quecreek Mine Rescue once again shone a spotlight on Somerset.
"America's County" once again banded together and rallied around an historic event.
The Families of Flight 93 have often said how welcoming and wonderful the residents of Somerset County were whenever they visit.
Miners reunite:6 of 9 miners rescued 20 years ago gather for reunion
Gordon Felt, brother of Flight 93 Hero Edward Felt, said multiple times that, in his first visit to Somerset County, nearly every house welcomed him and the other family members with American flags hanging from their homes all the way to the memorial site.
During and long after the Quecreek rescue efforts, Somerset County rallied around the miners, their families and the rescue teams.
"It reaffirmed that tight-knit, family-oriented community we always had," said Somerset County Department of Emergency Services Director Joel Landis.
Celebrations planned:How to join in the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Quecreek Mine Rescue
America's County
For the generation born in the 21st century — many of whom are now in their 20s — Somerset County has always been "America's County," but Quecreek cemented the phrase.
Ron Aldom, Somerset County Chamber of Commerce executive director, said it was either former Gov. Mark Schweiker or former President George W. Bush who coined the "America's County" phrase.
"Anyway, it became our local trademark and we (Chamber) had it officially registered and trademarked," Aldom said in an email.
"We still own the rights. Time has diminished the America’s County trademark, however I will say that it was created because of the genuine concern and outreach by the residents of this county. The trademark is all about the people here."
Last year's anniversary:19th Quecreek rescue anniversary
Landis said Somerset County has always been "America's County," even before Sept. 11, 2001.
"Those people that live in those communities, when challenged with such an event, do everything they can at all costs," he said.
"This rescue has a phenomenal ending where nine miners were rescued, and, with that, all these teams were brought in, but the community rallied around when they needed support.
"It reaffirmed those communities and how they respond. ... Those values were values we always had here."
Landis said the trademarked phrase means Somerset County has America's values.
"America is freedom and protection of liberties. Part of that and being dubbed that is about the values instilled in all Americans," he said.
Aldom said the days after the successful rescue were a time of triumph and emotion.
"The world also saw how everyone from this county banded together to help in both locations," he said.
"This rural county was in the national (and international) spotlight twice within 6 months and in each case, they gave all they could to help.
"The fortitude and teamwork displayed in this county was evident to anyone who watched these events unfold. The family members of Flight 93 have all time and again, thanked people from Somerset County for all that they did for them and their deceased loved ones."
Daily American newspaper clips following the event
Past anniversary celebrations
19th anniversary:Organizer welcoming the public to annual '9-for-9' celebration at Quecreek
18th anniversary:18th anniversary of Quecreek Mine Rescue celebrated
17th anniversary:17th anniversary of Quecreek Mine Rescue marked
This article originally appeared on The Daily American: How Quecreek and Flight 93 changed Somerset to America's County
