On the morning of September 11, 2001, the world was changed forever. For many, it started as just another Tuesday, but by the end of the day, it would become one of the most defining moments in U.S. history. Nearly everyone who lived through it can recall exactly where they were and what they were doing when the news broke. In our town, many teachers, law enforcement officers, and citizens were among those who witnessed the tragedy unfold in real-time.
As educators, our teachers play a critical role in shaping our understanding of the world. On 9/11, many were not just teaching but also dealing with the unfolding tragedy alongside their coworkers and students. Trina Patek, a principal at Hallettsville Elementary vividly recalls the moment the news hit.
“I remember 9/11 as if it was yesterday. At the time, I was the principal of Hallettsville Elementary School. My husband was working a trade show in Houston, Texas, and he called to tell me about the attacks on the World Trade Center. He said that the convention committee was asking everyone to evacuate the George R. Brown Convention Center. After his call, I went door to door on the elementary campus and informed each staff member of the 9/11 tragedies,” recalled Patek.
For those in uniform, 9/11 became a call to action. Law enforcement officers and first responders across the country were immediately called to help. Chief Randal Schlauch, who was serving as an investigator in Eagle Lake, reflects on the impact the attacks had on their duty to protect.
“On September 11, 2001, I remember clearly what I was doing the morning the terrorists attacked the United States. I was listening to the radio while traveling when the station was interrupted by news of the attacks. I was extremely dumbfounded and couldn’t believe we were being attacked. I drove to the office and when I went inside, the secretary and a few administrators were watching the news as everything was unfolding. I couldn’t believe what was happening. We immediately started preparing officers and adding more officers to the streets to patrol heavily and then started communicating with other agencies as well as local, state and federal agencies to prepare and become more alert.” Schlauch shared.
Ordinary citizens were forever changed by the events of that day. Many watched in disbelief as the towers fell and the world was shifted. Alice Summers, who was working at the Department of Human Services and was also a City Council member, shares how that moment shaped her perspective and everyone’s sense of community.
“September 11, 2001, started off as a normal work day. I was working at the Department of Human Services and was also a City Council member. A fellow worker’s mother called her and told her a plane had flown into one of the World Trade Center buildings and it was on TV. We went into the office training room, turning on the set. What we saw was unbelievable. As we watched what was thought to be a terrible accident, the second plane flew into the other building. We looked at each other in disbelief. At that point, the morning got progressively worse with the attack on the Pentagon and the crash of the plane.
“Looking back, it was horrifying watching people running away and first responders running to the horror in the hope of saving lives. Regular citizens were also answering the call and springing into action without thought for their own safety. The crash of Flight 93 demonstrated how ordinary citizens spring into action with extraordinary bravery/heroism in times of disaster and human need.
“I was proud of those individuals who helped and those who died to save others. I also felt and still feel great sorrow for those individuals who perished on that day and days and years afterward due to exposure to materials and toxins in the air. I also feel sorrow for those who were left behind; both the survivors and the loved ones of those who died.
Our entire Nation was a victim that day, however, the Nation licked her wounds and then sprang into action as our Nation always has done. I am proud to be an American.” Summers stated.
Though many years have passed since that tragic day, the memories remain for those who lived through it. Stories from citizens all over remind us that 9/11 was not just a moment in history, but a significant turning point in our nation.
2,977 people lost their lives in the attacks on 9/11. Among the victims were over 400 first responders and military personnel. Thousands of families, friends and loved ones mourned their losses. Over one hundred countries grieved the death of citizens.
The United States was forever changed on September 11, 2001.
As we reflect on personal accounts from that day, we honor the unity that emerged from this tragedy. Today, we remember and honor the lives lost of citizens, first responders, law enforcement officers, teachers, grandparents, moms, dads and children. Remember the strength that comes from unity, giving hope in the darkest times.
The 9/11 Attacks failed. They did not divide us. They did not weaken us. The United States flag still hangs in every classroom and is proudly displayed on front lawns. The memories of those we mourn wove us together tighter than ever before, as we found crutches in our neighbors and support from our country.
Now, this day acts not only as a memorial but a reminder; that we will rise together.
Dena Strauss • Sep 11, 2024 at 4:02 pm
This was something that, if you witnessed it happening, you will never forget! It was truly unbelievable and extremely scary!