There is not much that can be said about the occurrences that took place five years ago today. I distinctly remember where I was when I learned of the attacks.
During my senior year of high school I had first period off and that morning I came into school around 7:55am. At this point the north tower had already been hit and above the library entrance the news was covering the situation live. I stood in the hallway with a few other people watching the news and at 8:03am, Flight 175 entered the screen and crashed into the south tower right before my eyes. At first I thought it was a replay of some sort but then slowly realized that it was live and I had just seen an unbelievable event. I did not know what to think. I know that I did not think terrorism at first but I was definitely confused.
The bell rang and I made my way to class. Up until that point no one in class knew anything about the attacks. As I entered second period the principal came over the intercom and told teachers of the events. They asked them to turn on the televisions and stay in the classrooms. By this time, it was 8:35am. The entire class watched the replays of the south tower being hit and the billowing of smoke from both towers.
At 8:44am reports started coming across the screen that the Pentagon had been hit. Everyone just stared at the television. The principal announced that we would stay in the same class through the next period. At 9:05am the south tower collapsed live on television. At 9:22am the north tower collapses.
The rest of the day was spent watching the different news stations. The halls were somber and we moved from class to class just catching a glimpse of any updates.
In 6th period a girl who I was friends with was crying hysterically. Come to find out, her uncle was in the north tower when it was hit, he had not been heard from. We later learned that he perished in the attack.
I usually have a poor memory when it comes to events, but that day and the way I spent it are still very vivid. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those who lost friends and family that day and to those who have fought and died to ensure that this never happens again.
May we never forget.