Let’s Roll by Sgt. Patricia McNorgan

Inspiration

The phrase “let’s roll” became synonymous with the resistance to the terrorist hijackers on United Airlines Flight 93 – the airplane that crashed in rural Pennsylvania following a struggle between the hijackers and the passengers. “Let’s roll” were the last words uttered by passenger Todd Beamer before a group of passengers tried to overtake the hijackers.

Purpose

The purpose of Let’s Roll is “to indicate the different face of the war on terrorism,” according to Sgt. Patricia McNorgan, the artist. While similar to the “Uncle Sam Wants You” posters of World War II, the pilot is female – a reference to the changing face of the enemy.’

September 11

In the rear view mirror, the smoldering World Trade Centre is visible, which places the plane near New York City on September 11, 2001.

USAF F-16

The pilot is flying in formation with a USAF F-16 as part of the joint air defence of North America.

Facial expression

The woman’s facial expression captures not only the event she is seeing, but can also be interpreted as a biblical reference. According to the artist, Sgt. Patricia McNorgan, “it can be looked upon as a modern-day version of Lott’s wife looking back on the carnage of her city.”