Katie Couric Instagram – This week marks the 11th anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. 26 people were killed, 20 of them children between 6 and 7 years old. I covered the aftermath of that shooting. It’s something I will never forget. One of the families I got to know well were the Bardens. Daniel was 7 years old and the weapon the shooter used left his face beyond recognition. Yes, take that in. Mark and Jackie Barden are co-founders of @sandyhookpromise which works to implement gun violence prevention programs in schools and enact policies to reduce these horrific mass shootings. The Bardens are exceptional people, as are so many of the Sandy Hook families that were impacted. Last week, we had the honor of attending a concert organized by @artistforaction talented musicians who are devoting their time to this same issue. People like my friends @sherylcrow @mrpeterframpton and @kevinbacon among others. The third slide shows Natalie Barden, who lost her brother when she was just 10 years old. (James the oldest Barden child was 12). When Natalie sang One More Day, it was so poignant. I will never forget knocking on the Barden’s door the Sunday after this happened. They welcomed me in. A Christmas tree was up—I saw Daniel’s homemade ornament hanging on it. It was a typical holiday scene, except their youngest child had been brutally murdered. I so admire what the Bardens have done with their profound grief. Thank you for your friendship Mark and Jackie. For the work you’ve done, for using your voices. And for using the power of music to deliver your message. (Mark is the guitar player in the pork pie hat—is that what it’s called?) Please remember to support efforts to reduce gun violence. There are so many great organizations to follow and get involved with: @sandyhookpromise @artistforaction @everytown @momsdemand @giffords_org @brady_center Get involved in your community. And support candidates who believe in common sense gun laws. Don’t wait for a tragedy to impact your family. Do all you can to prevent it. Thank you.❤️