I remember waking up that morning thinking it was just another day at work. I remember thinking it was a beautiful morning in Winnipeg and laughing along to Tom and Joe on the radio as I drove into work. I remember the shock of hearing the first plane had crashed into a tower while on Kenaston, a few feet from Scurfield. I remember driving into the parking lot and sitting in my car, waiting for more news.

I remember walking into the office thinking it was a tragic accident and feeling heartbroken for the family members of those on the plane. I remember thinking that the damage to the office and resulting injuries would likely be minimal.

I remember logging into my computer and starting my work day. I remember the commotion on the production floor when the second plane hit. I had barely sat down at my desk. I did not stay.

I remember standing in the lunch room, glued to CNN, watching in disbelief as both towers collapsed. I don’t remember leaving there for hours.

I remember the panic in the voices of US based co-workers. I remember learning we had offices in one of the towers.

I remember customers calling – reaching out – just to hear another human voice on the line. I remember that we talked to each and every one of them, no matter how long it took.

I remember the news that planes were being diverted and receiving a quick phone call from my hubby telling me he had no idea when he would be allowed to return home. I remember hearing that members of 402 Sqn at 14 17 Wing were guarding three planes on the base side of the airport in the news. I remember he didn’t come home for three days and how sympathetic he was for the people forced to remain on the aircraft while he and his fellow soldiers patrolled the tarmac.

Many forget that not every passenger on those diverted planes were allowed to disembark and find temporary housing in hotels, schools and people’s homes. I remember.

I remember sitting in my living room reaching out via telephone for help making sense of what had happened. I remember feeling the world was slipping sideways. I remember talking to my dad – he who grew up during the blitz and had survived many an air raid and bombing in London during WWII – hoping for answers and gaining none.

It has been five years. Just as I have never forgotten Tiananmen, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Challenger disaster, I will never forget 9-11.

May the tragic loss of life as a result of terrorist actions in New York on September 11, 2005 never be forgotten. Each life was special. Each loss devastating to friends, family and co-workers.

Je me souviens. I remember.

h/t owed to me in comments for correction re: 17 Wing Winnipeg.

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