Al Qaeda and Militant Islamism

9/11 was a shock to the American psyche! However, even considering the horrific attacks of 11 September 2001, memories are short for many Americans. Daily life resumes and people forget. The government, military, news, and educational systems should keep our citizens focused and educated on why we are in a war against terrorism, and the desired end state for this war. The consequences of quitting this fight could be very grave. The purpose of this paper is to prove that years after the 9/11 attacks, the United States and its citizens are still in danger of the global terrorist organization, Al Qaeda ("the Base") and militant Islamism. The threat remains high and will likely remain high for generations.United States interests and allied interests, foreign polices and national economies are threatened by an enemy that attacks from within the host nation and from across the globe.