nmah5635.xml

nmah5635.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2003-09-04

I was on Active Duty, US Air Force, Dover DE, which isnt very far from NYC, when something like this happens. I was a jet engine mechanic and like always my crew and I were listening to the radio while working in the shop. Thats when we heard the news. In disbelief the whole shop stopped working and went into the break room. On the TV with all 60 of us crammed into a little room with jaws on the floor we saw the first tower on fire. The news people were trying to figure out if it was terrorism. In the next few moments the news showed the first video of the first plane crashing into the side of the tower. As if on cue we saw the live shot of the second tower getting hit. We knew then it was terrorism. For the moments that followed I remember looking around the room to make sure I got the look on everyones faces, because I knew I would remember this moment for life. I remember the feeling of pride that the towers hadnt fallen, and a total shock and physical stomach wrenching sickness when they did fall. I joined the military to serve and protect my country. I always had a sense of feeling safe and strength, but at that moment and days later, I never felt so vulnerable and helpless in my life.

Although I didnt loose anyone that I knew personally, because I am an EMT I did loose 300+ of my brothers and sisters that served the fire and police departments with honor. The biggest point that I learned from that day was never, and I mean never take anything for granted. That means friends, family, this country and safety. There is always a possibility now that someone I love could be at the wrong place at the wrong time and die needlessly.

It should be remembered that it was selfishness, arrogance, and ignorance that let 3000+ people die. The United States of America Government in a whole has been archaic on its technology and means of dealing with the world, this lesson should be put forth and learned to bring us back to the present.

I lived in an apartment so I really didnt have a place to hang a flag outside, so I figured wearing my uniform on duty for 50 straight days on 12-hour shifts without a day off made up for it, but I really wanted to hang one outside. I have always, since I was a child, hung a flag in my bedroom. My feelings havent changed for the flag. I have always had a very patriotic sole, getting teary during the National Anthem, and carrying the flag during Boy Scout ceremonies as a child, among other stuff. I am a solder, I will live, fight, and die under that beautiful American Flag called Old Glory.