Hi team,

I payed my respects at Ground Zero on the way into work this morning. I was 2 blocks away from the towers when they were attacked and came down, and worked in tower 2 on the 97th floor from 89-94, there for the 93 bombing. My old employer, Fiduciary Trust Company, lost nearly 100 people out of the 700 odd that made up the entire staff. I lost several friends that day and today is a very emotional day for me, to say the least.

Not knowing what to do as only family members were allowed past the gates, I bowed my head and said a prayer for all those that died that tragic day, as well as their families that grieve up to today and god knows how long into the future. I also prayed for our troops overseas, bringing the fight to the terrorists and keeping our shores safe. I then prayed that all Americans will never have to face another horrific act like 9/11 again in their lifetimes.

I found myself so choked up at this point, I was wiping my tears on my sleeve. A few feet away from me, a firefighter stood with his jacket on, helmet in hands and was staring into ground zero through the fencing. He looked at me as I looked at him and we silently walked to each other, shook hands, I said thanks, we solemnly nodded to each other and turned away. Wish I could have said more but didn't know what else to say to this unsung hero.

So please take a moment today, and say a prayer, and remember the fallen from that tragic day. There is so much that we take for granted, living in this great country.  Although 9/11 is so media'd up - it is an appropriate time to remember and be thankful for all that you have.

9/11 - Always remember. Never forget.

Paul 

LukesVette38971.2522453704

All our prayers go out to the so many that lost loved ones and friends on this tragic day. I will be present for the moments of silence planned up here in the great white north as will many others.

T

Well said Paul.

It is certainly a day I'll never forget...and I can't image that any American that was around on 9/11 will ever forget.

                                                 

                                          NEVER FORGET

Thanks for posting that, Paul.  I shall never forget either.

Hear, Hear......Terry

Paul, FTC, I had a bunch of friends who worked there.  My company lost about 500 on 9/11 between our multiple affiliate corporations in the bdlg.  I lost some very good friends.  I worked there for 19 years on and off.  My firm had space on Hanover, 80 Broad and Seaport Plaza.  I was transfered between the sites a zillion times. I met my wife in the Concourse of the S.Tower.  My Mom worked there too.  I transfered out to NJ 9/2000.  I was supposed to tranfser back 9/2001 right after labor day.  I pushed it off until 10/1/2001.  I still cant get passed it.  We lost an entire office.  I stopped this morning too.  I still have a coconut in my throat.  5 years, it went fast.. 

My wife and I did the same as you Paul in rememberance and have not forgot. We went to see the WTC movie recently and found it to be a very emotional experience. Although unlike many we knew nobody directly involved we still found the effects to be very profound upon our lives & freedom.
Our flag has flown daily ever since the original date of travisty and will continue to do so. Bless those who continue to hold reverance of this country and the founding principles that were originated by our original nations leaders.

Hey KeBo,

   How about lunch this week. I think you're still around the seaport, right?

Paul

It's 5 years later, why does it feel like it happened yesterday ? I'll never forget or forgive.