LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – On August 26, 2021, 13 U.S. soldiers died in service to our country.

Former city councilor Randy Christian says meeting the affected families inspired him to write a song.

“I’ve never been in a room with family members who have lost a family member in service to our country, and boy, that hit me really hard.”

Three years after the tragedy at Kabul airport, the song “Not Forgotten” was created.

Christian says it only took a few hours to put the text together.

“Putting on a uniform and giving your life, knowing that you could give your life for our country,” said Christian. “We must not forget that and that is our main goal.”

Christian turned to local artist Hannah Jackson in the hope of her help.

Jackson is the voice behind “Not Forgotten” and also helped compose the song, which she hopes represents the unity we need in our country.

“This song just evokes the feeling of love and can remind us that despite our differences, we just really need to love each other,” Jackson said.

She says the stories of these 13 men and women need to be shared.

“We will continue to speak without regret about these people who sacrificed their lives for our country,” Jackson said. “They may be gone, but they are not forgotten, for their stories live on in those of us who are still here.”

Christian is convinced that the act of everyone who puts on a uniform is a heroic act.

“I would hug them, just look them in the eyes and say thank you, thank you for wearing the uniform, and be willing to possibly die for our freedom,” Christian said.

Christian and Jackson hope this song spreads love and raises awareness for all the men and women who gave their lives to protect us.

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