nmah144.xml

nmah144.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-08-16

I was currently in South West Asia supporting our military operation when we were so viciously attacked by these cowards.
I had just finished my duty and was taking in some sun at the base pool; when suddenly I heard the attack alarms. I rushed to my tent not knowing what was happening. I donned all my required gear and headed to my post.
When I got there everyone was glued to the TV; when I saw what went on I stood in disbelief and started thinking, "this has to be a joke".
But it was not a joke, one of the mighty Twin Towers was hit by a plane. I thought it was a freak accident, when all of a sudden the 2nd plane hit the other tower. I thought, "Oh my GOD we are being attacked!" Right then and there I was beyond angry and beyond upset, I really cannot describe my emotions too well because I have never felt like tis before.
Being in the military we are trained for alot of scenarios, and sometimes we (military folks) feel that we have the power to take the law into our own hands. Since we are trained to eliminate the enemy, we take that to heart.
When I witnessed the cowardly attacks on the towers, the pentagon, and the heroic efforts of the passengers in Flight 93, I just said to myself, "I am in the military and I am ready to take all of those responsible and eliminate them from existence." I am proud to be serving in the US Air National Guard, especially in times like these that all of the people of the USA are looking to us (military folks) to not only protect them form any threats, but make those responsible for the Sept. 11 2001 attacks pay dearly!

I have a better outlook on life and I am very much appreciative of my wife and kids. I thank GOD every day that they wake up alive and healthy to enjoy another day.
I also stop and reflect on all the good that has happened to me. And of course GOD is first and foremost.
I also stop and thank people who day to day go to work and execute their jobs proudly. Folks like the firemen, policemen, emergency workers, etc. I get choked up when I am in uniform and someone comes up to me and says, "Thank You, I feel safe knowing that you are here!"

All of those brave firefighters, police officers, port authority officers, and civilians who lost their lives at the hands of these animals should never be forgotten. I have several 9-11 books and I have read so many stories and it just gets to me all of the time. Those stories give me strength to perform my duty as an Air National Guard and to always keep in mind that there are a lot of people that depend on us (military folks). We will never let them down.
As our President so elocuently put it, "We will not falter, We will not tire, and We will not FAIL"

As a military member, the US Flag is very respected. I do not allow anyone around me to say negative things about our flag. When I see it waving I feel so secure and I get reminded that we are the land of the free and the home of the brave. And I am part of the brave. We are the bodyguards of this nation, this wonderful and graet nation, which I will always protect, even with my life!