Remembering 9-11-01

This image is in our minds and hearts forever. The moment we knew we were under attack. That some purposely hit our World Trade Centers.

Watching those buildings burn was a horrific feeling. Just hoping they could somehow keep them from collapsing.

But they couldn't. The damage was too great. The buildings fell, killing so many Americans. So many mothers, fathers, brother, sisters, sons, daughters, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends...our fellow Americans.

The Pentagon being hit. Knowing there was more than one target. The fear of not knowing where the next plane was going to strike.

Heroic Flight 93. The story of how these brave people saves numerous lives. The unknown of where it would have it.

The affect this day had on our country is unbelievable in so many ways. Every emotion was there. Fear, sadness, pain, helplessness...pride, love, courage, compassion. We lost so much that day. The way that we all pulled together was amazing though.

My story:
I was 18 and babysitting at Sarah's house. I can't even tell you what I had on the TV but when the news came on I couldn't believe it. I watched the coverage for hours. When I went into work later that day I couldn't believe the panic throughout the town. No one know what to expect.

I had joined the Army in May, just before graduation. Ben joined too. Because of our MOS, we didn't leave for basic training until November. I couldn't help but wonder how this affected me and my Army commitment. Would my orders stay the same, would I have to go early, would I keep the same job. While I wanted to do something to help, the scarred part of me wondered if I could get out of it. I was already drilling with my unit in Little Rock. When I went to the next drill everything had changed. You couldn't just drive on post anymore. Still so much fear.

My time in the Army was a short 5 1/2 years. I never thought I would be living the Army life from then on. Ben and I both thought at the time we joined, that we would do our time and get out. Ben was commissioned in August 2007. Now I can't imagine our life any other way. I couldn't be more proud of my husband. I just pray that we don't have to make the ultimate sacrifice because of this war against terrorism. It breaks my heart that so many have.

Today I am going to take my family to the beach. I am going to play with them, laugh and love. That is all we can do. Remember always, and live our lives to the fullest. You never know how many moments you have left.

I am proud to be an AMERICAN!!!

(all pics except the last are from google images)