Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Remembering September 11

Today flags will be flown at half mast, people will wear patriotic colors, some will take a moment of silence and a host of other things as we remember September 11, 2001.

I realize many students in the course were in elementary school on that dreadful day. Without negative commentary on Islam/Muslims or President Bush please write what you remember from 9-11 OR what you will do today to in memory of those who lost their lives and/or those who worked tirelessly to save lives in the aftermath.

151 comments:

  1. Debra B40
    What I remember of that day is that I was at work in a high rise in downtown Atlanta. We watched as the news unfolded. As my coworkers and I watch, I cannot believe this is truly happening. I am so worried for each of my children and want to be close to them. As I leave work, I collect each one and listen to them of their day and what has happened. I work now in law enforcement so I am surrounded by those who spend their days saving lives and I am in awe of them. Today their is a celebration here and all around even my now grown kids. At the end of the day we'll discuss each of our celebrations.

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    1. I was a junior in high school and I remember the similar feeling of just wanting to be with my family. The television was on all day at school and we just watched the events continue to unfold throughout the day. I also have great appreciation for law enforcement and for those who gave their lives to save others.

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    2. I totally agree Debra B40, today you always worry about your family because no one would ever want to experience what happened on 9/11. I am glad that you chose to serve and protect others, that is one of the most important jobs you can ever have. So watching the 9/11 attack took a huge impact on the U.S. but in a way it brought us closer together.

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  2. Matt P40
    I flew home from a summer of working in the Yellow Stone NP area on 9/1/2001. On 9/11/2001 I was a wild 22 year old male in college without a care in the world. I remember coming home from class and my New Jersey roommate was kinda freaking out because his brother and his wife were in the city, both were in midtown and fine. The images on TV didnt seem real, weeks of images and stories, I realize now how much they affected me. Im glad I spent time in NYC before and after 9/11, I've been to ground zero. 9/11 changed everything, maybe im a little less ignorant today than back then. Today I will probable watch some news stories on the event, but for the most part I have my normal life to live today...work, kids, school, house chores, eat, sleep. Ill never forget that day or the after effects. By the way, you post at 3am, get some sleep.

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    1. Wendy C Online 39
      Matt:
      It's amazing how that day put so many things in perspective for so many. So many were lost that were fathers, sons, wives, daughters and parents to unborn children. Sure makes us grateful for the life experiences we have had to date!

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    2. In response to Matt.

      Ryan Rauch 35
      Something like that definitely puts things into perspective. The small problems that we deal with on a daily basis are really insignificant.

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    3. Eiryn M. 40 ONLINE in response to Ryan R. 35,

      I agree. Remembering that day does allow us to sit back and focus on what truly is important. Those who were working in the towers thought they were working an average day. Those who were aboard those planes thought that it was an average day. Certain individuals stripped them of their lives for nothing. They can never enjoy what we enjoy now. Its sad.

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    4. Loved this post, you can really see whats important in your life. So many people take so much for granted even now after all these years.

      Renee' h -39

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  3. Allison S 39
    I was a sophomore in high school. I was upstairs in Spanish class. We were all sitting at our desk watching Mrs. Mclamb, distance learnining for Spanish. The schools secretary came upstairs and told my teacher to turn the news on. We sat in silence, some of us crying, as we saw the smoke, the ashes, the debris. People were jumping from the buildings. It was awful, and to this day I will never forget. I believe we were all changed on this day... I did not realize on this day back in 2001, that that one attack would affect me personally. I ended up marrying a soldier in the United States Army. Until the day he deployed I did not understand true respect for our military and their families. the war our country has faced because of the tragic events on 9/11/2001 has impacted our military families tremendously. My heart aches for those who have lost family or friends in the towers, for the servicemen (firefighters and police) that were lost trying to save those on that day. And my heart aches for our military families whose son or daughter, may have been in middle school on that day, but went to fight in that continuing war, protecting our citizens and families of our nation, and lost their lives, and sacrificed the ultimate. I can't explain how my heart aches for them. Today, as everyday I will pray for our troops. I will pray for the families of those involved and lost in the tragic events of 9/11.

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  4. Isjour Beasley-Online 38.

    I was 10 years old and in elementry school on 09/11/2001.I was in class when this tragedy took place.The teachers had stopped the lesson and told us to remain quiet.I then began to see parents showing up and picking up kids early. Anxious to know what happened, I wondered if my mom would show up too.My name was called and I looked up finding my mother in tears. Worry and fear showed on my face. I rushed to my mom and hugged her.I asked her what was going on? She instructed me to come and get into the car.Once in the car she told me the horrible news. I started to cry and could not stop. Just a couple of months ago we moved to GA from New York. My family lived in NYC and my dad did not have a chance to make it down to GA yet.When we got home I sat on the couch with my baby sister and watched the unforgettable images of tears and destruction on the news.My mom in the background answering a ton of calls from our family back home.Still awaiting to hear from my dad he finally called and told us he was ok just shocked and scarred. My dad was only a few blocks down from the nightmare.While trying to wrap our minds around of what took place in our home we were told that a old neighbor of ours was killed.It was truly a blessing from God that my family was okay.That day just reminds me to be mindful of your actions and your last words to anyone. We never know what can happen.

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    1. Wendy W 40 Response to Isjour Beasley-Online 38. You had me in tears at your recollection of that horrible day. I can't imagine how scary it must have been waiting for news that your father was ok. You were certainly blessed, I am so happy for you that he was spared. <3

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    3. Bart S. online 39 in reply to Isjour Beasley online 38

      Wow, what a story! God certainly had a hand on your father that day. For others, we can only sympathize for their loss. We should always learn to forgive and forget in times of trouble because life is too short. Always, always make it right with people. There's no room for hatred or grudges in the Kingdom. Thank you for sharing your story with us!!

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    4. Chris W, 39 .

      I agree with you Bart that we should always learn to forgive and forget. I know this is the hardest thing to do. We don't want to live life with anger and sadness throughout life. Like you said, life is too short and we have to enjoy and cherish the life that God has given us.

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    5. Megan K. 39 in response to Isjour Reasley 38. I am so sorry for your neighbor. I could not imagine being away from a family member and not knowing if they were okay. You are very right in saying we should be mindful of our actions. We never really do know what will happen next or the time we have left with our loved ones. Thank you for sharing your story!

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  5. Wendy C Online 39
    9/11/01 -
    I was in my kitchen in Arvada, CO. My husband was in Atlanta on a business trip. My sister called from SC. Her husband was in the marines. She told me to turn on the news. At first i thought it was a tragic accident. After the second plane hit, I knew our world was being changed as we all watched the events unfold. My son was 2 and had no clue what was going on. My oldest at the time was almost 5. It was very difficult to explain to her what was happening when I didn't have a clue, other than the US was under attack. It was several days before my husband was able to drive home from Atlanta to Colorado. I was unable to sleep for several nights. The fighter jets started flying over our house until the airspace was cleared. It was all very surreal.
    This past summer while in PA, I took my kids to NYC. We visited ground zero and the church that served as a command post. It was very emotional seeing all the remnants of people looking for loved ones that were never found and the piles of police and fire department badges. My oldest is now almost 16 and she remembered seeing the flyers hanging on the church fence on the news. My son, 13, was very shaken but does not remember anything from that day other than what he has learned. My youngest is now 10 and was born after the attacks. She just couldn't comprehend why someone would want to hurt innocent people. As much as that day tore America apart, the fact that so many came together is a source of pride! I'm still so proud to be an american!

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    1. C. Burgess Online 38.
      My kids all have heard the stories about 911 but were too young to remember the day. I have never been to NY or visited ground zero but hope to take my kids all there one day. I love your last two lines "As much as that day tore America apart, the fact that so many came together is a source of pride! I'm still so proud to be an American!" and concur!

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  6. Kimberly M.
    I was in middle school (8th grade) on the day of Sept 11. I remember my aunt checked me out of school early that day, and no one would tell us what was going on. We went home, loaded up on ammunition and firearms and left for my grandparents. We were prepared to fight if we had to. In memory of those that lost their lives, I will not enforce any conflict and will work to resolve any conflicts, because I know that they would not wish any of that on us. I believe they would like us to live a life of peace and serenity and celebrate our lives rather than feel that we have to fight or defend.

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    1. Stephen G online 40 responding to Kimberly M
      I really like your story. It shows how paranoid everyone was and how everyone just wanted to see their family. I wish that we were filled with such passion everyday to show our loved ones how much we love them.

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  7. Wendy W 40

    I was on my way to work that fateful morning and was listening on the radio. Traffic became a near stand-still as everyone began pulling over and just listening. I could see the shock on everyone's faces as I drove past to get to work. There was obviously no work that would get done that day. Our corporate office of my company was based in NY and we lost many employees that day. Everyone gathered around various news sources - tv's, radios, CNN online... everyone was in tears and just pure, utter shock at the insanity of it all. I decided to leave and go home early. All I wanted to do was to be home safe and sound with my little boys and pray my thankfulness to God that we were safe and for God to be with all the families that lost loved ones. It was definitely life altering to all of us. Many, many tears were shed as the stories of people that lost loved ones were told. My prayers are still with everyone involved.

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  8. Dana B.38
    On September 11th 2001, I was 11 years old and in the 6th grade. I remember sitting at my desk seeing my teacher cry. She turned on the news and we heard what had happened. We all sat there in silence and in so much shock, some were crying while some kids didnt understand what was going on. I felt so bad for the people who lost their lives and for the families invloved, its heart breaking. Its hard to believe its been 11 years since that very sad day.

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  9. Ryan Rauch 35

    I was self-employed at the time in 2001 and was getting ready to head out to a sales call when I notice the TV. I had the news on and they had a video on the towers after the first plane had crashed. Nobody knew what was really going on and the news was saying it was an accident. Shortly after they panned over to the second plane and I watched it impact the second tower. I knew then that we were under attack. The news then reported that other planes were currently hijacked and they had no idea the number of planes involved or where they were heading. I immediately called all my loved ones to make sure they weren’t in harm’s way. Luckily, my family was safe. I canceled my business for the rest of the day and remained glued to the TV.
    Afterwards, I was deeply moved by the actions of the FDNY. So much, that I decided that I wanted to be part of something like that. It took me almost two years, but I changed my career to public safety and joined the fire service. I think about those guys on a daily basis and I hope my family and department will never be faced with such a tragedy as FDNY was that day. Most of those guys knew they would not make it out of those towers, yet they didn’t hesitate and rushed in to save as many as possible. It’s a testament to us Americans that we will rise to meet any challenge, even when faced with a terrible event such as 911. The terrorist’s didn’t cripple us on that day as they intended, they actually made us stronger.

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    1. Sam C 40 in response to Ryan R 35,
      Ryan,
      Thank you for deciding to change your career. It is an underpaid position for the amount of danger you put yourself in.

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  10. Dana B.38 in response to Wendy W.
    I agree that it was life altering to all of us. It was so sad hearing people's stories of that day and how they lost loved ones. I cant imagine how they felt.

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    1. Tacile B. 40
      In response to Dana B. 38

      I agree... I couldn't understand it all until my uncle was killed because of being a Muslim. I'm not sure the mind set of people, but its sooooo sad. God bless America...

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  11. C. Burgess Online38
    On September 11 I was home on maternity leave with my first born son. I had just got out of the shower and was listening to the TV in the back ground. Then the astonishing news was announced about the first twin tower. As I watched and listened I couldn't believe it. The news anchors didn't even know what happened and thought it was an accident. I called my husband at work where they had not heard about it yet. While on the phone with him, still watching the news, I saw the second tower get hit. The news anchors couldn't even believe it. I think every one was speechless. Even some of the news cast were crying.
    It was a tragic day as were the many that followed. Luckily I didn't have any loved ones in NY but my heart defiantly hurt for anyone who did! Businesses, restaurants and even a day care get ambushed all in one day. Thousands of lives gone in an instant. I listened for days as they described the scene of peopling falling out windows and being trapped for days. It looked like Armageddon, a true war zone with nothing but ashes, suit, smoke and ruble. Stories of fire fighters, rescue dogs and other heroes who lost their fingers, toes and lives from searching in the sharp smoldering debris. The work of everyone in that city was incredible! People who didn't know one another, black, white, asian, fat, thin, male, child..etc... It didn't matter, they were all helping one another in anyway possible. All of them stood up together and jumped in where help was needed. I am truly lucky that while that day impacted my life forever, none of my loved ones died. I come from a large military family and had two brothers in and out of Iraq during the late 80's-90's and some through 911. The stuff we saw on our soil is nothing compared to the events most people in other countries suffer daily! I think 911 didn't hinder the US like they thought it would, it made us stronger as a unit and more determined to be proud to be an American. Now more than ever, we truly know what it is to fight for our freedom! In many schools for years that followed they would take a moment of silence on 911 and some still due. I think we should remember that day but we should not only see it as a tragedy, but a day we stood up for what we believe in as one united nation. I hope that all firefighters, police and military know how grateful and proud of them we are! Not just those who assisted in anyway during 911 but the ones that are still working hard today. These heroes impact us all daily and never even receive a thanks. Every 911 my family talks about what happened on 911 and how fortunate we are to have one another. We tell each other how grateful we are to live in American the land of the free.

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  12. Jillian D. 36

    I believe I was in fifth grade on September 11, 2001. At the time I was living in New York on Long Island. I remember getting up for school like a regular day, waiting to catch the bus. But unlike other mornings, my parents were awake and in the living room with the TV on. I walked out of my room and into the living room and remember watching the footage replay of the first place hitting. It was right before I got on the bus that the second plane had hit. At school it was an awkward silent morning, delayed and announcements were made for moments of silence and respect. Upon my return home I learned that my Aunt had decided not to go to work that day in Manhattan. I also learned that my Grandpa who lived nearby in Manhattan got away safely. Of course others, weren't so lucky. That day definitely changed the course of my life, even if I was at such a young age. Never forget!

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    1. Meredith Hunton

      I must of been crazy living in New York when it all happened. I am glad that no one in your family was hurt but it is sad that others weren't as lucky.

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    2. Daniel Q Online-40

      Wow I'm sorry to hear that you had to experience something like that. I'm sure it is a memory that you wish you could forget.

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  13. Meredith Hunton

    I was in the 4th grade that year and I was home schooled. I remember me and my mom had just dropped off my sister at one of her classes and we were driving back home. We were listening to Clark Howard and he was talking money or something and you could hear someone come into the room and stop him mid sentence, and all you could hear him say was Holy S***. He came on and said that there was a plain that crashed into one of the Twin Toward in New York. Me and my mom where in shock but we really didnt know what was going on. My mom called my dad who at the time worked for Delta Airlines in their IT department, and he could only speak for a moment but he said that two plains crashed into the Twin Toward one crashed into the pentagon and another crashed somewhere in Pennsylvania. When we got home we were able to turn on the TV and see what was left of the twin towers cause they had both fallen. That was a really bad day and year. I try to spend today thinking about all the people who died and all the people who survived, and who regular people became hero's that day.

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  15. Bart S. online 39.

    I was 11 years old and in the 6th grade when the attacks on our nation took place on September 11, 2001. I remember it not being a good day at school because the teachers were acting so strange. I got in trouble that day. That just did not happen to me at school. I would find out why when I got home that day. The administration did not tell the students what had happened, and I will never forgive them for not doing so. I understand it could have frightened some students, especially at that age, but it's a part of our nation's history. There was no way of getting around it. The school day would end and the buses were loaded to take the students home. When I arrived home, I was met by my mom at the front door and I was told what had happened. In this terrible tragedy, I will never forgive the Little River Elementary School administration for not telling us what was going on in our country.

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  16. Vicente Gonzalez

    When the terrorism attack happened I was in my original country which is Mexico I was a little kid and didnt know how important and how many lives where lost that day every corner everybody was talking about the twin tower I dont remember what exactly I was doing but the only thing in my mind about the towers where when I was in a store watching the news and the towers where in fire.

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  17. Aqueelahk 39
    I had just started my senior year in high school. We were all in homeroom when the teacher turned on the tv which she NEVER did and the first vivd picture i remember was the smoke coming from the tower and watching a few little bodies just jump from the building..I could not believe what i was seeing. It was surreal.Was this happening here in the US for real??? We were all in dead silence. I will never forget that day and what my eyes had seen on that television.May God Bless us.

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  18. Patrick Healy
    Intro to Sociology
    9/11/12
    I remember September 11th, 2001 very well. I was in second grade at the time and homeschooled. I remember my mom answering the phone and her friend said the Trade Center had been hit. We ran to the closest TV and were in shock. We saw the second plane hit and both towers fall. I’ll never forget it because flying up to New Jersey a few months prior we passed right by the towers and they were stunning. The part I remember the most about that day is my dad coming home. He had worked in New York City for a number of years and had friends who worked in the trade center as well. He didn’t say a word just stared at the TV for hours. He later found out he lost three friends that he went to high school with in the Trade Center. He says that every time he watches the news coverage he’s watching his friends die. In conclusion, that day will never be forgotten and will go down as a tragic day in American history.

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  19. Elizabeth N -Online.38

    On September 11, 2001, I was back in my country of origin in Africa. I remember being in the office in the city where I worked. It was around 4pm in the evening, so we had an hour left to go home for the day. The manager called an impromptu meeting and told us that America has been bombed and that we needed to go home because nobody knew what was going to happen to other countries. Everybody was frightened by the news and our understanding was that the whole of United States was no more. We all thought the world would come to an end because we thought if United States which protects other countries had been hit, we were all in danger. My country was still recovering from a similar fate under the terrorists who bombed the American Embassy in 1998 in which so many young girls in a college lost their lives because the college was next to the embassy. So this came as a confirmation that the terrorists were going to finish the whole world. We all went home and waited to watch the news which we could only watch at 9pm via CNN presented by one of the local channels. Very few people had cable and thus we anxiously waited for the news to know exactly what had happened. Even though we realized that it was not the whole of America, it was very sad to realize how many people had died in this terrible attack. So many people were so afraid to travel by airplane even after a long time. Today, I pray for the families who lost their loved ones in this attack to continue receiving strength, because this will live forever.

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  20. Tinashe Mahachi 20- online
    When 9-11 happend I was back in Afica and i was at the age of nine. I remeber It was just the year right before i was supposed to come to the United States and I remember my friends were telling me that i was going to die and there is going to be war where i was going. I remember feelign scared to go because all we saw on tv was explosions on the TV in the buldings and i did not understand really what a big deal it was. When i came to the Stated i learned about the history of the date and the thousands of people that lost their lives. Today just looking back i feel really sad thinking about the people and the families that were affeted in theior lives. Today i am watching the documentaries with my sister trying to teach her what happend on the day and i am happy to to say i serve in the USA AIrforce.

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  21. Angelina V. 38

    On September 11th 2001 I was 11 years old and in 6th grade of elementry school. I remember the morning went by normally as it did. It wasn't until we were all walking back from my music class that I realized something was off. Almost every teacher was congrigated in the common area watching the televisions the school had set up there. They all looked horrified and some were crying, but no one would talk to us. We walked back to our homeroom and our teacher didnt come back for another 15 mins or so. It was then that she told us what happened.
    Of course being that young at the time we didn't really understand what was happening to its full extent. Kids are great at sensing emotions though, and I remember the whole school just feeling somber that day. Also I was very concerined for my dad, who worked at Lockeed Martin at the time. There were rumors I heard that the terriost attacks would hit there as well and that really terrified me.
    Today I just keep my prayers with the family and friends of victims of 9/11.

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    1. Kellianne B online 21038 In response to Angelina V. 38

      I couldn't understand why no one would tell us what was wrong, but my mom said that it was up to the parents to tell their children. Some kids needed to be told differently due to personalities, fears, etc. I guess being in 6th grade, you were old enough to take the news better. I'm glad your dad was not involved in any attacks.

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  22. Tacile B. 40

    I'd just graduated from high school 4 months earlier. I was working at a furniture story at the time. I was at work that very day waiting on more customers to enter the story. My co-workers and myself were sitting around the office when the news came across the radio. as we listened faces started to change. there were sadness in the eyes of may people. I was 19 at the time, so the news wasn't as painful for me. until, about 3 days later my mother called me asking to go over to my aunts house. She went on to say that my aunt found her husband at their home lying in a puddle of he's on blood. My uncle was a Muslim, but my aunt is a christian. We all were confused as to what happened. We could understand who would do such a thing? Long story short my aunt and uncle had raised this little boy until he was 21 years old. Earlier that day there was another case that they had just wrapped up a few hours before while that one was going on. The location was just around the corner for my aunts house. The young man that they raised had many illnesses, he was very unstable. The young man shot and killed my uncle and then shot and killed himself. With all the mess about Muslims trying to destroy the US must have gotten to him. My uncle and his adopted son has gotten into it the night before. It was a sad situation. This happened the day before my mothers birthday. Needless to say, her birthday was a very sad day. Praying for the victims family and friends be strong.....

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  23. on september 11 2001,I was at my old elementary school. Even though i was in second grade i still remember the news reports all over the tv. I dont have any body that has ever lived in new york but my heart goes out to all those families who lost their loved ones and to those who helped clean up after the tragic event. Todat though, is different from all the other years because today we know that the leader of al-queda is dead. I guess this helps us feel a little bit more secure. Also i give thanks to all those soldiers who risked their lives fighting for this country.

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  24. Ariacna L.36
    on september 11 2001, i was at my old elementary school. Even though I was in second grade I still remember all the news reports all over the tv.I dont have anybody that has ever lived in new york but my heart goes out to all those families who lost their loved ones and to those who helped rescue the others. Today though is different from all the other years because today we know that the leader of al-queda is dead. Although this doesnt make up for all the damage it can help us get a little bit of closure and security. Thanks to all the soldiers who risk their lives fighting for this country.

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  25. Kellianne B online 21038

    On September 11, 2001, I was in 2nd grade. I don't remember much about the day until after school. My mom was a crossing guard for my school. When we all walked down the side walk to cross the street, my mom had an american flag taped on her stop sign. Everyone was asking why the adults were sad, but no one would really talk about it. They said our parents would talk to us later in the day. They just said that something sad happened to our country. My mom told me and my brother and sister that planes were flown into the two buildings in New York, and two more planes were crashed into the pentagon and into Pennsylvania. She said they were crashed on purpose by mean people. I feel for all the people still affected by that day. I can only hope that their lives are full, even without the ones they loved.

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  26. Lakin C 36

    On September 11th, 2001, I was about 6 years old and in 1st grade. I was too young to realize everything that was going on, but I do remember an announcement coming on over the intercom for all teachers to turn on the TV's. We all huddled in the room and watched as the ashes littered the sky and chaos was everywhere. Many students started to cry once they realized where it was at, and that they had family there. God bless all of those who were killed that day, and everyone who lost a loved one.

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  27. Brittany C. 36
    Mrs. Lippman's 5th grade science was where I watched the awful tragedy on September 11th. Not too much that I remember other than a teacher came into our room and told us to turn the tv on. Thinking it was something grand I got a little excited, but soon I was shocked about what I was seeing. I do remember not knowing really what to think about it. Visiting New York was always a dream I had, so I knew where it was....but I didn't know why it was happening. Later that evening my parents sat me and my brothers down to discuss what was going on. We prayed as a family for all the brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, and so on who were going through this terrible time. I'll never forget the feeling I had when I witnessed 9/11 on the television.

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  28. Debra B40
    In reply to Wendy W40, I could tell that was a difficult day for you. It was personal for you in so many ways.

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  29. Kristyn Mathews 38
    On that day I was 23 years old, I had just returned from taking my oldest daughter to pre-k, when I walked in the house it was all over the news. I first tower had been hit. At first I thought it was a horrible accident, but then moments later the second tower hit, and I knew that it was terrorists. It was a horribly frighting moment. America has always been so safe, so detached from that sort of violence, and here it was right in front of me. That day it made me proud to be an American when I saw how our citizens came together to help eachother.

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  30. Sam C. 40
    I was actually at work that day. I remember calling my mom who I knew was at home and saying that someone said there was a plane crashed into a building in NYC. She gave me more of the story as she was watching it unfold. She also told me that they had cancelled my dad's flight for work. Throughout the day I tuned in anywhere I could online and talked to my mom and girlfriend at the time. I remember watching the footage of the towers falling and feeling an enormous sense of sadness at all of those lives lost needlessly. I even made sure to check on an old ex of mine from NY to make sure that he and his father were safe and hadn't gone into the city to help as they were volunteer firefighters in the town I used to live in. Watching everyone try to help was an amazing site, but sad at the same time in that so many who went to help perished as well.

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  31. Elizabeth N - online.38

    In reply to Lakin C 36

    I really feel sorry for you and all the young children at that time who did not understand what was happening. The most dis-heartening thing is when they saw their teachers cry or other adults. This was an emotional distress for all children.

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  32. Teresa S. 40

    On that day in September 2001, I was in forth grade. I remember everyone being checked out. Most of my classmates' parents were there but my parents never came and got me. We went through the day until my last class, it was P.E. The teachers and staff were advised not to let us know what was going on because they thought we would start crying and begging to go home when honestly I didn't have a clue what they were talking about when they did tell us. They gathered all of us up and put a TV in front of us instead of playing a game. We watched the news and the replaying of the planes hitting the building. I still didn't grasp the seriousness of it. My mom picked me up from school and took me to McDonald's then to cheer practice like any other day. That night my parents sat me and my two older brothers down and explained what had happened and how serious it was. It wasn't until about eight grade until I came to know everything behind it and the serious nature of which came with that day. Now I am blessed to have the life I do. I am not always perfect, who is? But i do all way try to live to the fullest in everyday. After living in Columbus,GA right outside of Fort Benning, I have come to appreciate the military and what they do for us. We shouldn't ever just think the military on days on which holidays are marked on our calendars but everyday. They are still over there 11 years later.. Remember that.

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    Replies
    1. Ashley M. Online 39. in response to Teresa S. 40.
      I was in fourth grade as well when this happened. I respect the military and the army so much more now that I am older. I hope everyone rememebers to never forget that day, we get to live our lives freely and we have the military to thank for that!

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    2. Quiyana M. Online 40

      I think that is the really the first time when everyone in the U.S. truly became one nation.

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    3. I agree I think that is when everyone came together and stood as one nation.

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  33. i remember being in 5th grade learning about something that was irrelevent and all the sudden my teacher ms. hoff turned the tv on after an announcement over the intercom. no knowing what i was looking she look really shocked and confused. as a 5th grader i was excited to watch tv instaed of working/learning. but after realalizing what was really going on. after getting home and seeing the same thing on my tv that was on at school i started to ask why everyone was watching this. my mother told me that something bad happened that people were flying planes into buildings. i was confused as to why but i thought it was cool. knowing now that it was horrible. everything inbwtween is kinda fuzzy but that all i remember.

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  34. I remember 9/11/01 very clearly. I was off work that morning and I was sleeping in when my husband came in and told a plane had crashed into the pentagon and the twin towers. I didn't believe him till I turned on the TV and saw for myself. I was so horrified by what I saw on the screen and called all my family to make sure they were ok. I am very patriotic and so I cried for a week. Every time I passed by an American flag, I cried for all those families who lost their loved ones. I am teared up now just thinking about it all. Every year on 9/11 I discuss what happened with my children and see if they have any questions, like why it happened at all. I think that even though this was our nations worse tragedy it brought Americans closer together.

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    Replies
    1. I like when you said"I am very patriotic and so I cried for a week." I personally thing that each individual who is living in this great land from North to South,from East to West must honor this day and give respect to the memory of the victims.Furthermore i do believe that this event need to be told to the new generation in such a way that it will become a living event in their hearts which they will transfer to the coming generation. I am also for the fact that this event has unified Americans than ever in the history.

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  35. Ashley M. Online 39.

    I remember I was in the fourth grade, my teacher (Mrs. Whorton) turned on the T.V. and we saw the both of the buildings going up in flames. Honestly the only other thing I remember about that day is everyone crying, and not knowing what was happening.
    To remember that day I always light one candle on September 11th. I still can't fathom how many lives were lost on that day. And I honor and respect everyone who tried to save people. I will never forget this day, I don't think anyone will.

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  36. On September 11th, my mother called me and woke me up. She explained what had happened after the first tower was hit. The horror of the first attack shocked me, but I still wasn't quite sure what happened and if it was an accident. I drove to work that morning, and turned on the tv when I got there. As I was watching, I saw the second tower get hit. It was horrific and I get chills just thinking about that moment. Every year, I remember that day just as vividly as the last and I say a prayer for the victims and their families and our country.

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  37. In response to Tecile's comment:

    What a horrible time that must have been for you. The effect on our country was devestating to each and every one of us, but for you and your family it must leave even more devestating memories. I am very sorry for your loss.

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  38. Quiyana M. Online 40.

    I was in the 8th grade on Sept. 11/2001. All the T.Vs. in the school were turned on to the news. At first I didn't know what anyone was talking about (didn't know what the Trade Centers were), but then I actually saw the second tower fall and it really freaked me out.I had just left from New York a week before the attacks.

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  39. The 9/11 event was and still a nightmare for me and my best friend Jesse who lost his brother during this horrible incident.I was sick and couldn't go to class that day.I was watching cartoon and suddenly switched the channel to news.It was for me like a movie when i saw the first tower attack but i did realize that people were crying and shouting in our neighborhood.It was a reality,US was attacked and the whole nation heart was gravely wounded.later in the evening came Jesse who could hardly tell us about how his brother was among the victims. Me and my parents wept together with him till the break of the day. On this remembrance day i traveled to Knoxville,TN in order to spend some emotional time with my friend Jesse who has settled his family over there. We prayed for the victims and particularly for "our brother" so that their souls will rest in peace.We also honored those who have given their lives to save others.

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  40. Jessica Ball 36

    On that morning of September 11, 2001, I was 11 years old and in the 6th grade at a middle school in Paulding County. I remember being in my English class and school hadn't even begun yet ( I think it was only around 8am). Another teacher came into the class with tears coming down her face and tells my teacher to turn to the news on the tv in the classroom. I was not yet able to fathom what exactly happened and who had done it. I just remember hearing on the news that a plane crashed into one of the twin towers in New York. Then just minutes later, We see footage of another plane crashing into the other tower. It was a very awkward and solemn day for the everyone. The teachers were sad and kids who had family who lived in the area were picked up early from school. Now as I am older, and have met a person or two who knew of someone who dies in the incident,I realize how much of an impact it has made on this entire country, not just New York. I cannot believe it's been more than a decade now.

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  41. Alicia Hamilton 38

    I was a junior in high school on this day. I remember hearing various things throughout the day and not understanding, but I was very scared. I was in the midwest and we thought we would be safe because we were in the middle of nowhere. Yesterday morning I tried to explain (on a very basic level) to my 5 year old about what it means to be a FREE American. Today, I also have a greater respect for our country and for those that fight to keep our country safe. They sacrifice so much so we can live our lives without worrying about the dangers that threaten our way of life.

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    Replies
    1. Chris Y 39
      I agree that even though we were a great distance away and thought to be safe the thought that if it could happen in New York it could happen anywhere made me very uneasy inside

      Delete
  42. Adrian C.

    On September 11, I was in my first year of high school. I remember that day was very solemn and quiet. Most halls of the halls in high schools are loud with music and the chattering of people. Not that day, it was dead silence in the halls of my high school. Any classroom that had a television was on, and with people surrounding it in a half circle. I will never forget this day and nor should it be forgotten. In remembrance of this day at my work, we all wore red, white, and blue ribbons. I did not lose anyone in the 9/11 attack, but I did lose my sense of security and safety. I grew up thinking America was invincible and acts of war would never happen on American grounds. 9/11 changed my views and I never want to forget how I felt that day. It is important to remember history so change can take place and history not repeat itself. It is also important to remember all the victims and soldiers who fought for our freedom. There is a song sang by Toby Keith called “American Soldier”. One of the lyrics that always stick out to me in this song is, “Cause freedom don’t come free” (Keith, Toby. “American Soldier.” Shock’n Y’all. SKG American Nashville LLC. /DreamWorks Records Nashville, 2003.)This song always reminds of 9/11 and that freedom really is not free.

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    Replies
    1. Chris Y. 39
      Freedom is never free. Thank you for this post and thank you to all of our many men and women in our armed forces who sacrifice so much for us to live free

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    2. Kristen Durbin, online

      thats one of the things i remember most about this day, it takes alot to quiet a high school and walking through hallways and stairwells with everyone looking like zombies and it being eerily quiet just made the fear i already felt get stronger

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  43. Daniel Q Online-40

    On September 11, I was in 7th grade. I remember very vividly seeing principles run into class rooms urging teachers not to turn on the TV's in the classrooms because they "didn't want to scare the students." However a couple hours later I was in Art class and the teacher stood up in front of the class and said," I will show you the news because this action will forever change our lives." This attack as well as several other factors are what lead up to me ultimately joining the military. Seeing events like that done against innocent people just tore me apart.

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  44. I was in first grade when 9/11 happened. I remember the day before it happened my parents had to go to the pentagon for my dad so that he could get his next orders we were living in maryland at the time and I remember being on the bus on my way home from school and soldiers busting onto our bus telling us to evacuate the bus so they could check it for any bombs. I remember the terror and fear in everyone's eyes. My mom was at the bus stop when I got there and I could see that she had been crying and I kept asking what was wrong but she told me to hush. My dad didn't come home until almost 1 in the morning. We sat down the next day and my parents explained what had happened and i remember crying for the people who had lost there lives and their families. Sometimes I sit back and think about how grateful I am to God that I have both my parents. I'm just grateful.

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  45. Mika E 89

    I remember that day very vividly. I was in forth grade at the time, and we were all sitting in line along the wall waiting for class to start. The actual incident happened around eight in the morning, so naturally I did not hear about it until after school. When I hopped in my dads truck after school, he was listening to talk radio. I knew something was different when I didn't hear classics from the 70s. He urged me to listen, but getting me to listen to talk radio as a forth grader is like getting me to listen to modern pop music at my age. When we got home, the whole family was glued to the television. I was then finally able to comprehend exactly what happened.
    I will always look back at 9/11 the same way I did the day it happened. It was an unforgivable atrocity and will be recorded in history as an unforgivable crime against humanity.

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    1. Ashley M. online38

      I to heard about the incident after school. You could just feel a different vibe in the air when i got around my dad when he picked me up. I didnt want to listen to the radio either. I finally kind of understood what was happening when i sat down with my family and watched it on the news. Then after watching it. I completely understood the hate in this world against america with certain groups. It was a horrible moment.

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  46. J Walther 70:
    9/11 was symbolic to my generation in ways much like the assassination of J.F.K. was to our parents generation. After reading a number of the above posts, it's fair to say most everyone in America remembers where they were that day. I was sitting with my back against the wall in a 6th grade social studies class. I can remember watching the events occur on television and having trouble putting two and two together. We watched as tower 2 came crumbling down and watched as firefighters and bystanders ran tirelessly in and out of the wreckage, salvaging anyone and anything they could. I can remember some of my peers sobbing, others joking in disbelief, and yet others, like myself, sitting silently perplexed by the matter at hand. The events of September 11th inspired me to want to become a firefighter. Watching as men and women worked frantically to uncover those trapped in the wreckage for the weeks following, I became increasingly aware of my desire to help people, just as the men and women on television had. I keep these memories close to me still today, remembering in times of confusion and uncertainty, there are good people still left in this world who are around soley to help others in need. I aspire to be like those who risked and lost their lives in the attack by continuing on my path to become a firefighter.

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    Replies
    1. From Lori Baumgardner
      I think its great you took the experience and decided to become someone who will be looked at as a hero in society. Way to go for taking something very negative and turning it into a positive thing!

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    2. Jordan D. 40 in response to J Walther
      It is good to hear that the incident strengthened your resolve toward achieving your goal. This is only one example of the many changes that overcame Americans that day, some small, some big. It brought us together as a nation, and while it was a horrible tragedy that befell us that day, I can only marvel at the wave of patriotism that swept over many of us for years to come.

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    3. I like your approach. Kudos.

      Mika E 89

      Delete
  47. Ryan Kroeger

    Like it says, i was in elementary school and didn't exactly comprehend what was going on, but what i do remember is when they showed these stupid teenagers cheering and supporting what just happened. I remember asking my parents why those people were celebrating and they said "they are just stupid teenagers that don't know what they are doing. and since then every year i think of how some people just will never understand how truly horrifying that was for people. i just hope nobody forgets, because unfortunately it seems like more and more people are forgetting each year. i will always keep that day in my memory and pray for those friends and families who have lost.

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    1. Kelly S. Online 40
      It is sad that people would react this way to such a tragedy. It makes you wonder if they would react the same way if someone they knew and loved was in those towers at that time.

      Delete
  48. Response to Isjour Beasley-Online 38
    From BuffieM 40-
    I was very touched by your story and I am so glad your father was ok, and sorry about your neighbor. I am sure it is different when you know actual people who were involved with the attacks.

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  49. Well i remember that i was on Mexico when all this happened . I didn't knew exactly was happening for me New York was on a complete different world, and i was just 11 years old. I knew it was bad, but i think i was not fully awarded of the magnitude of the problem.

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  50. In momory of that day i was at work at a communications company that i had just preformed a update inprovement on their switching system that took them from making 1.25 millon dollars a week to 5 to 6 million dollars a week. The day was a good day to start i was working at my computer terminal and then all of a sudden the switch lit up like a light bulb and as i went to investigate another person ran in and said look at the tv someone has flown a plane into the towers in NY i say stop playing and went to check on the switch and low and behold it did happen. i went to the tv and saw the second plane crash into the tower and my HEART went out to the people in the buildings be cause i knew it would be a extremily hard thing to clear those buildings. I was glued to the tv and trying to keep our switch from blowing up it self from all the activity. Afterward i cried and said prayers for the people. In the next few days i got sick and was hospitalized myself with kidney failure. But buy the Grace of God i was up and out of the hospital and back at work in about 4 weeks . The thanks i got for bring the switch up and making this company to be prepaired for such a event and making 10s of million of dollars was that on December 18 the week b-4 Christmas they handed me my termination papers. There is a God and i have servived with a better job and more peace of mind. So for all those who were effected by 9-11 Keep on Pushing dont let a few controll your life. Peace!!!!!

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  51. Ashley M. online38

    On 9/11 i was actually in the fourth grade. i don't actually remember to much of that day they didn't let us really know what was going on and they didn't let us watch it. I do remember the school was on lock down. No one could enter and no one could leave. When i was picked up later that day though I was told what had happened and watched it on the news. I didn't understand why someone would do that. I was a confused little kid wondering how someone could kill so many people. That opened my eyes to the hate in this world. On September 11, 2012, i prayed for all the people who lost their lives and prayed for the hurting families having to remember that hurtful time.

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  52. Ivy M40 Online
    I was at work in the conference room when an employee came in and stated that the tower had just been hit. My first responce was "what..really?". Quickly running out to the front office to gather around computers, the entire office could not believe this actually was happening. One event right after another seemed almost unreal. But yea, this was really happening. Such a tragedy and having the uncertainity of what could or would happen next. All of my children were under the age of 13. As we spoke about the events of the day I could see different levels of non-understanding from the days event. Today due to the different age groups of my children they have their own concept of what 9/11 is and how it has affected their lives today and moving forward. As for me, it has left me with a feeling to be concerned when you see random things out of the ordinary..even to the point of a empty box in the road...is that not crazy??? No I do not call out a bomb squad but I just wonder. Todays society is not so simple anymore and some parts of society have lost all forms of human compassion.

    In responce to Wendy C....
    Regretful for the many lives that were lost; God will bless them all. Yet it did bring America more together as a whole creating a unity that will be hard to break. I believe things happen for a reason as hard as it may be.

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  53. Chris Y. 39
    I remember having the drama teacher of my high school coming in with a few students to tell us what had happened to the first tower. I remember my friends and myself first thinking she was joking. Then I looked at a friend and saw her turn and start crying, I then realized it was real. It made a massive knot in my stomach. When we witnessed the second plane strike, I thought of my mother whom was scheduled to be flying home later that day. I couldnt reach anyone and began to freak out. It took several hours for me to contact my family in which I eventually found out that her flight had been grounded. Probably one of the most nerve recking days of my life, but nothing even close to comparing to what the families of the days tragedies were going through. My thoughts and prayers are still with you.

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  54. I remember this day very well. I was living with a roommate in an apartment in Marietta. I woke up to the sound of him trying to unbolt my locked doorknob to my bedroom and save me. Once he got into my room he kept yelling we needed to get our stuff come into the living room and watch the TV in case we needed to get in the car and run for safety. I was confused, scared, and completely distraught over this sudden chaos from my much needed sleep I was having. I watched the TV in horror hoping that this was all a joke. It wasn't and I still to this day cannot believe I watched it live on TV.

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    1. Kennedy A.38 In response to Lori M B
      The entire world was put into chao. I could remember Tony Blair the prime minister of great britain then said, "this is an insult agaist the most powerful nation in the world" The whole world could not believe it.

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  55. Christopher Bowdich

    My mermories of that day were of partying for my birthday. Then suddenly my uncle mark called and told us to look on the tv, which is when we saw the bombing. Scarier that that was thatmy unclepaul was sent back from partwayto the pentagon in a helocopterloaded with feal and we didn't hear from him for hours

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  56. Melissa S. 90
    I was in 2nd grade when this had happened and all I can remember is all of the teachers gathering in front of the TV and not letting the children see what was happening. All of the adults were either crying or severely upset and I really had no idea what was going on until I came home. My parents tried their best to explain it to me but I still couldn't wrap my mind around it, I was too young to actually understand. I wasn't sure if the plane crash was intended or what was even going on really. There was just this silence all around me, that's really all I can remember. My dad, ever since that day, has been glued to the news; that’s all he does in his free time now. Now that I'm older, i can fully understand what happened and my prayers go out to everyone who was hurt that day.

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  57. I remember I was a sophmore in highschool and it happened while I was in my band class we watched it happen live it was one the hardest things to watch bcause there was nothing you could do to help the only thing we could do was watch it all happen. I thought of my Aunt Becky she was there the first time they attempted bombing it. I feel blessed she wasnt there that day.

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  58. Jessica W.39
    I was still in bed when everything happened. My cell phone started to buzz, it was my mom telling me to turn on the TV. She was at work and a customer had mentioned that the Twin Towers had a plane fly into them. At the time I turned on the TV they were still thinking it was an accident. As the story unfolded and we were told it was an act of terrorism, they started closing everything in town. I had a job at the local grocery store at the time, and we were staying open. It was really unsettling driving through town with everything closed and no cars on the road. I assume everyone was still at home with their eyes glued to the TV. Even at work there was a TV in the back and we took shifts going back there to watch the story unfold. I just remember not really understanding why anyone would want to do such a thing.

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  59. Jessica W. 39 in Response to Kristyn M.38
    I guess that was one way to look at, even with this horrible act that was going on in our country, it was amazing to see America come together and be supportive in the way that they did. I have heard before that sometimes it takes a bad situation to bring people close together. The Acts on Sept 11 showed us how true that statement is.

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  60. Kennedy A.38 online
    I want to say may the soul of all those who lost their lifes rest in peace. I pray God to give their famility the fultitude to bear their lost. That day was a rest day in the history of 21st century of United State. Then I was in Nigeria.I turn on the TV and I saw "Breaking News:America under attack" from CNN. It was indeed a chocking day for the whole world. This day I pray for the deceased, their families and entire nation,may the peace in God be with us all. And God bless America.

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  61. Eiryn M. 40

    I remember the school announcing that the towers were under attack. A lot of my teachers were looking around and moving to and from other classrooms talking to other teachers. I did not understand anything at the time until I made it home. Then once I saw the planes fly into the building, and seeing people jumping out of the building I started to ask my grandmother what was going on. She tried to explain but was cut short because she was awaiting a call from my mother who was overseas at the time. I continued to see the news that night and just felt weird while watching it because I could not grasp who would do something like that to so many people, plus I was coping with the idea that I saw people jumping to their deaths, which is something that an 8 year old should never have to do.

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  62. Eiryn M. 40 ONLINE

    I remember the school announcing that the towers were under attack. A lot of my teachers were looking around and moving to and from other classrooms talking to other teachers. I did not understand anything at the time until I made it home. Then once I saw the planes fly into the building, and seeing people jumping out of the building I started to ask my grandmother what was going on. She tried to explain but was cut short because she was awaiting a call from my mother who was overseas at the time. I continued to see the news that night and just felt weird while watching it because I could not grasp who would do something like that to so many people, plus I was coping with the idea that I saw people jumping to their deaths, which is something that an 8 year old should never have to do.

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    1. Holly G.38
      In response to Eiryn M.
      I agree with you in that it was something that no child should ever have to see. Unfortunately, from reading other posts, it looks like most of us were still in school and witnessed it all live on tv. We saw the second plane hit live and it became immediately apparent that it was not an accident. The emotions and confusion that overwhelmed us all is something that I'm quite sure we will always remember.

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    2. Angela J. Online 39
      In response to Eiryn M.
      I think it was wrong of your teacher to let young children watch such a horrific event. It should be the parents job to decide how and what to explain to their child concerning an event like this one.

      Delete
  63. Kristen Durbin, Online

    I was in 10th grade at Kennesaw Mountain High School on Sept 11,2001. An announcement came overhead while i was in first period telling all students to return to their homeroom classes. Once we got there our teachers were given instruction to turn on the tv and explain what was happening but they really couldnt tell us anything. I remember the room being completely silent as we all watched in horror. I remember going numb with disbelief watching people jump out of the buildings and watching the 2nd plane being shown flying into the tower over and over again as the media try to understand what was happening. I remember the school prepping the buses as word spread that the CDC could be one of the next targets. Ultimately we went back to our class schedule. How i spent remembering this day is remembering my dear friend SPC Joshua Dingler who decided on this day he would be going into the Army when he graduated and ultimately gave his life in a Humvee accident in Iraq on August 15th,2005.

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  64. C Wilson, 39

    On September 11, 2011 I just turned 18 years old and I was in my 2nd year in college and I was in the Philippines. With our time zone, we were 12 hours ahead of the US so I didn't found out until the next morning. When I went to school that morning, people are talking about it and by at that time I didn't realize how severe the incident was to the US and to the Philippines government as well. I remembered that the US embassy to the Philippines was tighten up the security and slow the process of approving the visa for the people who wish to come to the US. I feel bad and saddened about the incident knowing that the US is powerful country and the terrorist is still able to attacked the US so I feel sad and concerned for my country as well because we have Abu Sayaf and they said they are part of Al Queda and I don't want to see my people hurt and my country. I'm glad that the people behind the attacked was taken to the custody and arrested.I hope that that this thing will never happen again to any country of the world. I want a peace, love, happiness and unity throughout the world.

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  65. Lacey L.

    On the tragic day of September 11, 2001, I don't really remember too much but i remember being being in my 6th grade homeroom class, and they came over the intercome and were talking about what had happened. My teacher then turned on the T.V. and we were watching it , but i didn't quite understand what was going on. Then all of a sudden it seem like everybody's parents were coming to the school to get them out of class and there was just so much going on and everybody was hectic! It's not until I got a little bit older did I understand what had taken place and understand how it affcted the us.

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  66. Holly G.38
    On September 11, 2001, I was in 9th grade in Charlotte, NC. We were in the middle of changing classes when people started talking about how a building in NYC had been hit by a plane. I walked into my Legal and Political class just in time to see the second plane hit on tv. There was a lot of confusion in the school as we were all trying to comprehend what was happening. A lot of people left early. It was a morning that I will never forget.

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  67. Patrick Cameron Curley

    On the dreadful morning of September 11th, 2001 I was attending school at Lewis Elementary in the 5th grade. We had just finished our literature lesson for the day and switched over to math. Suddenly another teacher by the name of Ms. Tipps runs into our classroom and starts saying "Two planes just hit the World Trade Center buildings!" Naturally my teacher stops what she's doing, flips on the TV and just stares with an open mouth in disbelief. What I really recall from that day was the whole feeling of "What the hell happened?" as I couldn't feel anything but depression and sadness for the families of the deceased. Was depressed and confused about it at the same time, wondering why it happened. Time of my life that won't ever be forgotten.

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  68. Jordan D. 40

    As you predicted, I was in elementary school at the time of the attacks on the world trade centers on September 11th, 2001. It is a bit strange to look back at my nine year-old self and realize how little it affected me compared to how I’d react today. The principal came on the intercom and announced that a terrible tragedy had befallen the nation and told us to expect news when we got home. That was probably more directed at the teachers rather than the children, who likely knew no more than we did at the time. I remember one peer in particular going around and telling everyone that a school had been bombed or something along those lines. I guess it was to be expected that a bit of false news would circulate before we all went home. I still didn’t understand the real scope of what had happened until I looked over my mother’s shoulder later that week and exclaimed “cool!” at the image of the burning towers on her newspaper. I got a stern, well-deserved lecture for that remark. Maybe I was just too young to grasp it back then. Now, over a decade later, we hold our flags in the air at half-mast and remember the tragedy that befell our country as well as the changes it would bring for an entire nation, and I can reflect and say that I do understand.

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    1. Matt P40
      In response to Jordan D40

      When I was nine I wore a yellow sweat suit and had a mullet. I'm only 13 years older than you but I know that 9/11 affected you and how you,be grown up. I probably didn't know what a terrorist was until middle school when I started watch R movies, at nine I like candy and Heman. I feel like everything that happens everyday shape how we grow, nobody wore sweatsuits in 2001 or had an 80,s haircut because society changes. Your adolescence was during a time our country was at war with two nations and Terror as a whole, I grew up in peace and prosperity. 9/11 is the event that is going to shape and define our era. The young adults that were soilders in ww2 were defined as greatest generation and that was due to when they were 20 years old and some are still alive today.

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  69. Kelly S. Online 40
    On Sept. 11th my family and I had just moved down from Kansas and were in the process of unpacking the movers truck. I was 11 at the time. I vaguely remember the man who came to turn on our electricity telling my parents that terrorists had crashed a plane into the twin towers. This meant nothing to me at that point in time. However a couple weeks later my dad showed my siblings and I a video of what had happened and I was shocked. It didn't make sense to me why someone would do that to all those people. While it didn't affect me personally my prayers go out to all of those that lost loved ones on that day.

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  70. Dana W. 21036
    I remember when the planes crashed into the buildings and all the ash was on the streets, my teacher stopped class and turned on the television and we watched the news to see what was happening. We pledged allegiance to the flag and talked about terrorism and patriotism.

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    1. Danyelle N. 06 in response to Dana W.36
      Alot of tv watching happened and I believe people were more aware that bad things could happen in the United States. I know I had some family members who couldn't stop watching tv.I think all of us were a little bit more patriotic

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  71. Whitney H. Online 38
    On September 11, 2001 I was in my computer class at Cherokee High School. I remember it just like it was yesterday! Our teacher was called out into the hall, as were all the teachers, a few at a time. When he came back in I could tell something was very wrong. We turned the television onto the news and saw the first tower on fire, and the the second plane crashed, finally when the towers fell there were no words that could explain the emotion and tension in the room. Most of the kids in school were either picked up early, because families all wanted to be together in such a heartwrenching time. This year I thought about what it was like in 2001 and still today. I took a moment to remember those who lost their lives and also thought about and prayed for the soldiers who have fought and continue to fight for our freedom. I believe that this memory that I have is one that will never fade away. We must always remember!

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  72. Whitney H. Online 38
    In response to Jessica W.
    I completely agree with you about wondering why anybody would ever do anything of that magnitude! I know that most people in the United States as well as all over the world were watching and waiting together. It was so strange to try to keep moving on with our lives because all I could think about was all of the people who had already been found dead, those that were still trapped and all of the brave men and women who were putting their lives at risk to search for them. I cannot imagine how it felt to have to drive to work and continue on with your day after seeing such a tragic event.

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  73. B.Middaugh-Feryate 38

    I doubt I'll every forget that day. I remember all the details. I remember I had just moved to Dallas, Texas, and I was running late to work. I was doing laundry and waiting for my work clothes to finish, and someone called me and told me to turn on the t.v., so I did. It was on every channel, almost like a movie. It was like a movie. I remember thinking not knowing what to think. At first I thought what's the big deal? A plane flew into a building, and I didn't understand why people were jumping out and why didn't they just go down the stairs. So many things were running through my mind, and that's when it happened, the building imploded and the horror of it all could never be released from my mind. Being from Oklahoma and experiencing the Murrah bombing, it was like de ja vu all over again, except this time, it was done by non-Americans. I never have been able to understand this sort of violence, why someone finds it necessary to kill innocent people to make a point. I remember in Oklahoma, all the babies that died, I just didn't want to believe it was happening again.

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    1. S Elosta 40
      I've never been able to understand this kind of violence either. It's insane to me that people can take the lives of innocent women and children and say that it was on the behalf of a religion. Truly tragic.

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  74. On September 11 2001 I had just graduated highschool and was in college I was at the school when I got the new about the twin towers it was a horrible feeling on Sept 11 of this year I was spending time with my family and friends and being thankful what i have and the freedom I have for all the people who have went to war for us. I was listening to an video article of a woman who suffers from PTSD and it was very sad to hear the devistation in her tone. She was actually a first responder who was trying to help people, but then realized there was not much she could do, but save her own life after being trapped 2 times in burning buildings.

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  75. Danyelle N.06
    On September 11 2001 I had just graduated highschool and was in college I was at the school when I got the new about the twin towers it was a horrible feeling on Sept 11 of this year I was spending time with my family and friends and being thankful what i have and the freedom I have for all the people who have went to war for us. I was listening to an video article of a woman who suffers from PTSD and it was very sad to hear the devistation in her tone. She was actually a first responder who was trying to help people, but then realized there was not much she could do, but save her own life after being trapped 2 times in burning buildings.

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  76. Tranita J online 40

    I remember sitting in my history class on 09/11. I was in the sixth grade and my teacher always kept the television on. One of the teachers from another class room rushed in and ask my 6th grade teacher to turn to the channel news. The whole class was shocked as we stared in horror. The first thing that came to thought was is any of my family that lives there in those buildings? and who who do such a thing. I was to young to understand what terrorist were and what they were capable of. my face wept of tears that day after the horrific scene of smoke everywhere, people running, and screaming.

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  77. W>Boles 40
    I was on my way to work, I was working at the airport in Savannah.I was talking to a friend that wastrying to make out info see saw flashing on the screen. Once i reached work i was notified of the horiffic acts. I was scared for my children,family, and myself , i needed to know they were alright and out of harms way.My prayers went out to all that were involved and their loved ones involved who didn't know if their loved ones were ok, i could not imagined what they were going through.the unknowns were overwhelming.It is always motivational to see people come together like the men an women did to protect and rescue, fears had to be concorded and the whole ordeal seems surreal, yet when came together as one.

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  78. Wanda B. 40 in response to Wendy W40
    Wendy i agree, reading your comments brings up how i felt emotionally that day.I was mad about what was going on and happy to have my kids and family safe and accounted for,it was just sorrow, I was in shock and to this day it seems unbeliveable.

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  79. Hayes, online 38

    On the day of September 11th, I was in the seventh grade in science class. I remember we did nothing that the rest of the day but watch the devistating news on what happend. I became extremely touched by all of the Americans who volenteered to help. Every september 11th I say a prayer for all of the familys who lost a loved one and I now I have much more respect for Police officers and firefighters.

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  80. Ryan B 40
    I remember that on 9-11 I was in the 9th grade in 3rd period. It was one of those unreal moment that you thought you would never witness, But after you witness it you try to figure out how it's possible that could even happen. Then you figure out how it happened you get angry at the people responsible for it.

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  81. Megan K. 39 On that dreadful day 11 years ago, I was sitting in my 5th grade homeroom class. We were going over assignments for the day when another teacher came in and told us to turn the tv on. I didn't really understand what I was seeing. I just thought it was a movie we were watching, until I saw the expression on my teacher's face and noticed there were news anchors reporting on the incidents. The more I watched in the coming weeks, the more I got to understanding the magnitude of what had happened. I feel horrible for everyone who had lost their lives and for their loved ones who were left with so many unanswered questions. I pray our nation never has to go through that type of sudden tragedy again.

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  82. I remember it like it was yesterday. My parents both worked so I woke my brothers up and we all walked to school together as we did everyday. As we entered the school gates we all separated to our assigned class meeting points for our everyday morning meeting. Normally the principle would address different events that were going on in the community but this day was different. She told us that there has been a terrorist attack and it was in that very moment I saw my dad at the gate of the school with my brothers. He spoke to my teacher and before I knew it I was in the car on the way to my grandmothers house.
    At the time i lived in a duplex in New Orleans. The top floor was home and the bottom floor was the Muslim Student Association of Tulane University. We had been receiving a series of threats ever since the attack hit the news. 9/11 changed my life, being a Muslim in the United States would never be the same again. I still pray for the families that lost their loved ones on that tragic day.

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  83. Brittany Crowder
    I was in a math class when the news broke about the first plane hitting the twin towers. My teacher turn on the t.v. to the news. I didn't understand the significance of the twin towers beginning a symbol of the United States at that time. I remember my teacher explaining that this was a huge tragedy and would be in future history books. Then, the second plane hit. Seeing the images on t.v. made the reality of what was happening so real. As time went on, the other events became known about the Pentagon and the other plane beginning brought down before its destination. Knowing the attack on 9/11 was a organized Terrorist attack was frightening, it took away the sense of safety. Some say "ignorance is bliss", in this case I would say that's true. Not having to think about the real threat of terrorism before this event was much more peaceful. A year after the attack, a friend was showing me videos and recordings of people from 9/11. It was heart-wrenching to hear and see the desperation in those clips. I felt so sorry for all the families effected by the event and the brave people who did anything they could to help.

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  84. Priscille F.P.
    online
    I was in middle school french class as the second plane crashed. Even being a middle schooler I did not fully understand the tragic events happening. It was not til I arrived home listening to my parents speak to neighbors about the events that I began to grasps the events. I felt and still feel so bad for those people both in the planes and in the buildings. I am very grateful for the firefighters, policeman, sercurity guards and all the people who went in those buildings trying to help others.

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  85. Angela J. Online 39

    What I remember is getting a phone call at work asking me why I was working. The caller (my boss) then told me a plane crashed into the World Trade Center and to go home. I only lived about five blocks from my office so it didn't take long to get home. Once I arrived home, I turned on the television and was watching when the second plane hit. As I sat there watching I remember feeling horrified and helpless. I wanted to go get my children from school. I wanted to talk to my family and friends to make sure none of them were in New York City that day. I cried as watched people jumping to their deaths. I was deeply saddened by the loss of human lives. I felt deep sympathy for the families and friends who lost loved ones. After yet another plane crashed, this time into the Pentagon I remember feeling very frightened and confused. How could this be happening here? Then when the fourth flight crashed in Pennsylvania I went to school and picked up my children.

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  86. Priscille f. pierre
    online
    response to katkoota
    I am so sorry that you and your family had to experience such hate. I understand that people are hurt but its hate that started the attacks.

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  87. LaTia W online 39... I remember on the day that this disaster occurred. I was in my high school home economics class. This immediately became the ultimate conversation. Everyone's faces had changed and were just filled with so much grief and nervousness. I think us as students, didn't really realize the complete seriousness of the situation like the adults did. However, this event definitely changed the course of history and is something I don't think any of us will ever forget.

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    1. Macy Dobson Online
      Response to LaTia

      I was in the third grade when the tragedy occurred. Most of us had no idea what was going on or what to do, but we were all nervous and sympathetic as well. It's crazy how no matter our ages, we all felt so much grief

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  88. Priscille f. pierre
    online
    response to tranita
    I agree the thoughts who would do such a thing is right. I feel for those who went back and got people out of the buildings.

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  89. LaTia W online 39 in response to Tranita J online 40... I felt the same way. I was overcome with so much sympathy and grief for the people that were there. Just seeing people running covered with white dust all over them and then just envisioning how terrified everyone had to be inside the buildings and the planes. 9/11 was such a sad, sad day. No words could explain it. Everyone was just overcome with extreme sadness. My heart continues to go out to the families of those lost and also all the men and women who helped in this tragedy.

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  90. Macy Dobson Online.. When I found out about the tragic events, I was unsure what to think. I had never heard of anything like this, and I thought there was no way that it could be real. At first, a few of my classmates were discussing the tragedy, but it didn't really sink in until my teacher told us about it and put some of the news coverage up for us to see. Afterwards, I felt so much sympathy and grief for the families that were affected. I prayed for them and longed for survivors to be discovered. A few days later, I began to realize what it meant to be an American, and I knew that our country would have to become united to make it through this disaster.

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  91. Valentina 36
    I remember I sent my daughter to Kindergarten, turned on the news, and was getting ready for work. At the time, my husband was in New York City for work, doing construction at jail not far away from the Twin Towers. I was mindlessly listening to the news while getting ready, as I did every morning. The information began to seep in, and I started paying attention.
    There was an attack. A plane had been crashed into the Twin Towers.
    I didn't know what to do -- whether to cry, or scream, or call for help -- but I just stared.
    I called my husband's company and they told me not to worry. They were safe. Still, I was uncertain. I waited for the phone call.
    I waited, and waited.
    The phone rang at 9pm. Finally, it was my husband. He was terrified, he was shocked, but he was okay. The way he described New York to me was frightening, almost apocolyptic: "The city is gray, almost black. When you step outside, you hear distant screams, cries, and sirens from every direction." Until this day, at any mention of the tragedy, I hear the screams, the cries, of the friends and family of the people killed cruelly, and for no reason at all. They will always be remembered.

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  92. Melissa Perez

    I was in fourth grade on September 11, 2001. My day started rough. I missed the bus, so my mother drove me to school. On the way, I passed a dead dog. For some reason, that led to me believe day would be bad. Other than my trip tp school; however, my day was relativly normal until Music/Art Class. As we entered the classroom and took our seats I noticed the television on. We hardly ever even viewed movies in the class, so I looked to see what was on. It was the news. They were showing footage of the aftermath on the towers.
    Our teacher explained to us about the attacks and we made cards to send to the families. We finished the rest of our day normally and I rode the bus home.
    When I got home, my parents took us to Lowe's find an American Flag and we hung it up outside of our home. My mom explained to me again what had happened. She also told me how she considently, taped the news broadcast. She was tryin to tape a morning workout on Fox and got the live broadcast a few minutes into the routine. September 11 is always a day I shall remember.

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  93. Kandi B 67
    On 9/11,01 I was volunteering at my daughters elementary school. I was not a "teen" as several of you were. I was a grown woman of 35 years and remember walking into the office and seeing the news on the TV, and the devastated look on the faces of the school staff and other volunteers. Upon the news and what it meant, I remember the looks of astonishment and unbelief on people's faces. As I called my husband to notify him and check on his whereabouts, I also walked down the hall of the school in search of my three girls. I remember wanting to hold them close and reassure them that as a family we were safe, however I couldn't help but feel the sadness that our nation as a whole was suffering.

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  94. Kandi B 67
    In response to Ryan R. "It’s a testament to us Americans that we will rise to meet any challenge, even when faced with a terrible event such as 911. The terrorist’s didn’t cripple us on that day as they intended, they actually made us stronger." Very well said. We are a stronger nation as a whole and even down to individual families. Everyone was affected in some way or another and although we won't forget what happened that day, we can forever be grateful for the ones that fought and continue to fight for a freedom.

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  95. On September 11th 2001 I was In the 8th grade sitting in class watching the aftermath of the attack television. I wasn't fully sure exactly what was going on but I knew that what had happen was tragic. I remember thinking to myself how unbelievable it was. Now I know that going through that tragic event has made our country united and proud. Every year on that day I take time out to remember that day the people our country lost, amd the people who gave their all to help.

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  96. In response to Kandi B 67

    It is great for us to realize that that we are greatful for what we have. This event definitely helped teach me about being a patriot.

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  97. Cassie H.
    On 9/11 i was in the 8th grade in my english class, i remember my teacher turning on the TV and us watching the news cast and having a moment of silence for all the victims. Today 9/11 means a lot to me, as i have a spouse in the military who fights for our freedom daily. I display our flag and love seeing and being patriotic because of this.

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  98. William S. Online,39

    I can remember working as a Delivery Driver at that time, I saw the emotions of several customers that day. The day took on a slow and less important meaning from the normal picky and concerned condition of my furniture that i had recently purchased. I recall customers inviting us in to watch commentary on this terrible tragic event as though we did not have a job to continue through the day. Some where crying and some actually where on the phone trying to find out the whereabouts of either loved ones or co workers, as they were actually connected to the world trade center eventhough they lived in the Atlanta GA area. I will never forget some of the worry and actual accounts of some of those customers on that day. A lot of my deliveries were canceled that day. Every year since then I have and always will pray for all the victims of 911, and remind my children who where to young to understand at the time of the importance of that day, and how it changed the World forever.

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  99. In response to Angela J. Online,39

    William S. Online, 39

    I agree that the lost of life was the most overwhelming factor for me also. The desperation and courage of the victoms to choose on jumping or burning brought me to tears and will forever have an effect on my value of life.

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  100. In response to Lori McElreath Baumgardner

    B. Feryate 38

    It's almost funny to hear stories of people collecting their guns or packing their cars in prep to evacuate, now, but at the time it was a very real feeling. I worked at Sprint PCS, and a lot of calls were being monitored, blocked, etc., and we were all on high alert. We purposely blocked some lines/connections so allow the important government calls to be made.

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  101. A. McReynolds, Online40

    I remember that day it was one of the saddest days in history. Just to see those building collapse and all those people that lives were taken will never be forgotten. I was at work when I heard the news, the amount of pain those families experienced, I can only imagine what impact it had on them. But the way the nation came together to help those in need. I starred at the faces of the people that were covered in smoke and the sound of the building when they collapsed. But the way the brave firefighters risked there lives to say others was so dear to me. That day will never be forgotten.

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  102. William B. Online 39

    I remember being in early elementary school at the time that the twin towers went down. Announcements came over the intercom and I believe the teachers turned on the news so that we could all watch what was happening, even if what we saw we couldn't fully understand at the time. Every year since then we always had a moment of silence and listened to the principal speak or someone do a speach, then we would watch movies in memory of the tragic event.

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  103. William b. Online 39

    In response to A. McReynolds Online 40

    I agree, the way the nation pulled together in such a tragic event is astonishing. I knew a teacher who's daughter was in one of towers as it went down. As soon as she heard the news she became hysterical and none of us knew exactly what had happened. Now that we think back, the events that transpired on that day had a massive impact on may people's lives.

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  104. I was actually getting ready to go to work that day. I was in the kitchen finishing my breakfast, and briefly watching the news. That was the day when I really felt my heart literally drop to my stomach. It was the most horrific moment that I can recall in my life to this present day. I was so glued to the events that was happening I was late to work. I remember driving to work with the shakes. My mind was traveling at 100mph trying to understand why this happen, imagining the people who had already lost their lives, imagining the one's that was about too. I was at a total lost and praying that no one else shall perish. I posted on my face book page a picture of the towers collapsing and posted this statement "I still remember; and I will never forget..!!!"

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  105. In response to Cassie H.

    Wow.. You was just exiting middle school or just attending high school. I must commend all the school districts and teachers for allowing our young students the chance to see what was really taking place and explaining to them the nature of this great tragedy. Now you are married to a brave, and courageous solider who is without a doubt fighting for our freedom and liberty. I can totally understand why 9/11 means a lot to you. Keep displaying our flag proudly and tell your spouse I personally said "THANK YOU"

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  106. Stephen G online 40
    Sadly when I look back on that day I do not remember much about it. One thing I remember vividly is how odd everyone was acting in school. Slowly many kids were being checked out. The next thing I knew was I got checked out. My teach came with me to the front office to talk to my mom about how I had not been doing my homework. So I remember my mom being mad with me. I remember sitting down with my mom on her bed watching the footage of what was happening and seeing her cry. which was a seldom thing to see. The only thought in my head was why is she crying? I mean it is just some building. At that age I did not understand that people were inside of the building nor on the plane.

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  107. Tiffany R. 36
    I can remember that day clearly. I was in second grade and I heard my named called over the intercom to be dismissed. I remember thinking why would my mom pick such an odd day to get me out of school early. When I got in the car she seemed very strange and then started to explain what was going on. I didn't quite understand, I thought that someone was going to bomb the whole United States. We got home and my dad was home also because he worked at the airport and it was shut down and he was sent home. I remember I sat in front of the T.V. and then began to realize what has actually happened.

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  108. Sumpter Bettis 44

    I remember that I was working at home depot. Some people were on break in the break room watching TV and it came across the news. We all went to the break room to watch it happen I got to see the second plane hit. We all got in trouble for leaving the floor with the customers there. My heart goes out to the families who lives were lost. I can just imagine the thoughts that went thru the public safety persons and bystanders who went in to the builds almost know that there was a very little chance of coming out alive. THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

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  109. Sumpter Bettis 44 responce to William B 39

    i agree with you when you say it was a hard choice to jump or get burned to death I'm not sure if i could do it.

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  110. AnsleyC.
    I remember about 11/9/01 was my mom who was a teacher at the time and worked at my school, coming to my room and pulling me out of class. I also remember her frankly calling my sister who was at home sick with pink eye. When we got into her room, the tv was on and i remember seeing the second plane hit the second building. It was a scary time for me.I also remember my aunt was supp0osed to be in NY that day but she thankfully missed her flit

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  111. Shaylynn S
    I don’t remember much from this day although I was in fourth grade at the time. I was sitting in class when they moved all the students in the entire school to certain places such as the gym. We were all wondering what was going on but at the same time we were still really little and wasn’t really concerned. I knew something was wrong when my mom came and picked me up early from school because normally I and my brother would stay in after school. When everything was happening I remember my teacher turning on the TV and we saw the second plane crash into the building and then it got shot off. I wasn’t sure what to think I just know a lot of people were upset and crying and I didn’t really understand why. On September 11th of every year I always like to remember the ones that pasted away for reasons we can’t really explain but may they all rest in peace in a better place!

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  112. Renee' H- 39

    I was sitting in homeroom and the announcements weren't coming on and then all of a sudden we were watching the buildings and the plane crashes and all of the people running the city filled with smoke and debris. September 11th I remember all of my friends and battle buddies who are fighting and those who lost their lives fighting the war from the attacks that took place on that day.

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  113. Maxx L Online 039
    I was in middle school when this terrible day happened. I was sitting in class and a student how came in late told me there was someone who flew a plane into the side of a building in New York. We did not know it was a terrorist attack. A few minutes later our teacher got word from another teacher about the news. She tried to hold it together but quickly broke down in tears. I will never forget that morning and the rest of the day. Everyone was in shock and silent. I try and make an hour or so of alone time every year just to think and remember all those lost. I now try and make everyday count because we never know if it will be our last.

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