At 08:46am American Airlines Flight 11 hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center Complex. Seventeen minutes later, at 09:03am United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower. And the incredible sacrifice of those aboard Flight 93 who fought the hijackers on their flight. Where were you on this day? I bet most of us remember where we were and what we were doing on September 11, 2001.

On this day I was living in my home town. I was sitting at the bus loop waiting for the arrival of my bus. I was getting certified for my Occupational First Aid Level 3. I vividly recall sitting at the bus stop unaware of what was happening. I didn’t have a cell phone. It was 2001 and much has changed in the way of technology since. As I sat at the bus stop I was thinking to myself, the sky is eerily silent. There were no planes in the sky. The roads were also very quiet. A friend of mine came riding up to me on his bike yelling “the US just got bombed” I was thinking, did I hear right? Are you for real? I yelled back “wait wait wait, what?” Then he told me planes hit the World Trade Center. I sat there in shock.

September 11, 2001 – Never Forget

During the 9/11 attacks, the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, Canada, played a significant role in providing refuge and support to thousands of stranded passengers. When US airspace was closed, 38 planes carrying over 6,500 people were diverted to Gander International Airport, nearly doubling the town’s population. The residents of Gander opened their heart and homes, providing food, shelter, and clothing, and emotional support to the stranded passengers, earning international recognition for their kindness and hospitality. Click here to read more about the remarkable story of Gander.

The Symbol of American strength and resolve. Rising from the ashes of 9/11 now stands The Freedom Tower.

It’s soaring height and sleek design evokes a sense of aspiration and optimism, while its roots in the site of the former World Trade Center serves as a poignant reminder of the past.

Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those we lost, a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11. If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate”

~ Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 Pilot Jason Dahl

The story of survival, resilience, and hope.

Some things are worth fighting for.