FEMA: A Nation Remembers, A Nation Recovers

Your Comments One Year Later

Thanks so much. A very moving moving tribute!

Sue
Gilbert, AZ
September 10, 2002

I came with my family as an immigrant to the USA....To this day I thank my parents for this wondrous opportunity. As I saw the tragedy transpire on 9-11-01 I thought....How much more devastation can happen on this day....My heart broke for the families of all those who lost love ones....My heart also swelled with Pride a great pride to know that we all stood taller and stronger knowing that our buildings could tumble and lives could be lost but as Americans we will always stand proud on this soil either through tears of anguish and or great pride as all the forefathers who have gone before us teaching us the truths of freedom and democracy will never falter. Not a day has gone by that our beautiful red, white and blue stars and stripes flag does not wave proudly in front of my home....How grateful I am for my freedom, this life and for all those who sacrifice for this...OUR AMERICA, OUR UNITED STATES of AMERICA...No one will ever take that from us...pride , love of countryman and country....GOD bless us all.

Maria
Columbus, OH
September 10, 2002

September 11th, 9-11, the day my life changed, and the moment America lost her innocence. I was working a 9-5 job in Seattle when news came that a plane had struck one of the two towers in NYC. We ran to the closest TV which normally displayed waiting calls coming to our customer service center, switched to receive broadcast signals via a coat hanger used as a make sift antenna. Images were snowy, reporters trying to describe the incident unfolding when out of now where a second plane struck the second tower. Horror overcame everyone who witnessed this unprecedented event. I know two strikes on these buildings within minutes was no accident, but an intentional act. News of a third plane crash came shortly there after as the Pentagon had been hit as well.

As America watched for the next several days, as rescue efforts were conducted at what would become known as "Ground Zero", many firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and other qualified personnel either active or inactive were searching for some way to help, contribute to the solution. As a former EMT and firefighter with over 17 years of experience I searched for any way to help. My former department was eager to assist but received no request for task force or rescue experts. We struggled with the images being presented on the television knowing our own were trapped and in need of assistance.

Frustrated I called several agencies looking for a way to help. Upon the suggestion of a former fellow firefighter I sent FEMA a three page fax simply stating "If you need a hand please let me know", attached were two pages of certificates I have received over the years. To my surprise I received a two inch packet in the mail that stated. " Your application to FEMA has been accepted, your title, salary, and position is forth coming, please complete the background investigation."

I was surprised to receive the packet and delighted at the same time. FEMA assigned me as an Emergency Services Branch Chief in Region X, Bothell, WA. My time with the agency has been great. I have had a great experience one that I wish to continue for years to come. September 11th was the day that changed my life and brought me into government service. I hope my time with FEMA is one that I can be proud of and look back on with fond memories and a great sense of accomplishment.

Michael
WA
September 10, 2002

I am so proud to be an American! I am a 42 year old women that has served in the military when I was 18 , at the time I thought what a great way to serve my country and give back a little of what this great place has given me. I only wish that I was still in the military so that I may give back even more!

I watch all the coverage I can on the attacks, I don't want the World to ever forget what has happened to the USA and how "we the people" have proven to unite once again and show the World that we will not surrender to those who want to do us harm. I thank God every day for my life and family and friends.

I was always in the Towers for client meetings, lunch and have wonderful memories of the people that were killed on 911. I will never be the same, the pain is always in my heart and some of the faces are still in my dreams. I have spoken with people that had seen people injured and dying that day, their lives have changed forever...Please let's never forget!

September 10, 2002

We should always remember the day 9/11. To remind us of our freedom and to appreciate what America means to each of us. We are so very blessed to live in a country such as ours...may we not forget what God has done for each of us.

I trust everyone will pray for the families of those lost and not forget with time. I pray for our president and for congress that they will do the right thing to bring terrorists to justice.

Thanks you your tribute with the new pictures.

September 10, 2002

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