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Topic: Remembering 911

When Everything Was Beautiful And Nothing Hurt

Following 9/11, Matthew Hefti left college to serve in the Air Force. Hefti reflects on his promises to remember and all the things he chooses to forget.

Fate In What I Cannot Fear

Nate Eckman believed he remembered the events of 9/11 correctly. He was wrong. A teacher from his past helped him realize the flaws in his own memories.

Trapped in the Amber of this Moment

David Chrisinger felt the urge to serve his country in the Marines during the Iraq War. He reflects on his choices on the fifteenth anniversary of 9/11.

Talking With a 9/11 Witness Helped Him Connect With History

David Chrisinger wondered if he was intruding on sacred ground when he visited the museum at Ground Zero. A conversation with a witness changed that.

Thinking Brainlessly With Their Spinal Cords

Tim Patterson was attending the Naval Academy when the 9/11 attacks happened. He deployed on submarines and to Afghanistan. Now he wonders if it was all for naught.

Like Roses And Mustard Gas

Gerardo Mena left active duty with the Navy ten years ago. Friends died at war overseas and continue to die at home by suicide. On the 15th anniversary of 9/11, he recalls a eulogy for a friend.
Navy LT Stephen Thompson, the author’s son, in Afghanistan, 2013. Photo courtesy Sarah Colby

When It’s Hard to Be a Military Mom

It was one thing to be a military spouse during peacetime. It was quite another to have a spouse and eventually a child serve during a war.

Time Stood Still That Morning on Parris Island

Joy Craig walked into the base's coffee shop and found people huddled around the TV. Then the second plane hit.

Farewell, Hello, Farewell, Hello.

David Palacio wanted to defeat the enemy so he joined the Marine Corps after the 9/11 attacks. Six combat deployments later, the endless war continues on.