story20799.xml

story20799.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2006-09-12

September 11 was three days before my 18th birthday. I felt like I had the whole world in front of me. I woke up that morning to get ready for class when I got a call from my boyfriend. I was very proud I had gotten up all on my own because I was about to be dropped from my classes in college. He told me I didn't have to worry about getting ready for school and too turn on the TV. The second I turned it on I was in complete shock. There was one of the WTC buildings with a plane sticking out of it. I was in awe of the sight and not even a minute later I watched as the second plane hit the other tower. The realization of what was happening hit me America was being attacked. Although it was on the other side of the country I had to call my family to make sure they were okay. For weeks I lived in fear that the city I lived in would be next. San Antonio is a huge military town and it is known here that it is not unlikely for us too be attacked. Four months later I decided to take my safety into my own hands and I enlisted in the Army. I did it so that I would know I am making a difference in protecting my family. I spent four years in the military and did one tour in Iraq and I am extremely proud of every minute of it. My husband is now on his second tour and words can not describe how proud of him I am. September 11, 2001 was a defining moment in my life. It not only helped unite America but it brought me to a turning point in my life.