nmah2617.xml

nmah2617.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-09-10

My 11 September 2001 experience occurred within the Pentagon. I was on the fifth floor, "E" ring directly above the point of Flight 77 impact.

I had no idea what caused the explosion, but knew the event was catastrophic based on the immediate structural damage in my area.

For several minutes, I navigated through the damage and smoke in "E" ring to Corridor 4, which was completly filled with thick black smoke from the fire of the crash. In the area of "C" ring, the smoke cleared and I was able to reach "A" ring without further obstacles.

I was unharmed physically and safely exited the Pentagon.

I spent the next 2 - 3 hours walking to my hotel through the streets of a relativly quiet Washington. All traffic was at a stand still and everyone stood in disbelief.

I realize that our country is vulnerable to domestic disturbances. I have therefore become more cautious in urban environments and at large public events.

Regardless of our domestic strength, we should constantly be vidual to our weaknesses and alert to threats from rogue nations or groups.