Remembering September 11, 2001

  • Published
  • By Lt. Gen. Tom Miller, Commander
  • Air Force Sustainment Center

We each have our own personal account of Sept. 11, 2001 – where we were, who was there, and the feeling we had the moment we realized it was not a terrible accident, but an intentional act of terrorism.

In the days that followed the attack, we all shared not only in the pain, but also the unity that saturated our nation’s collective consciousness. American flags flying from storefronts, porches and car windows … daytime headlights on cars worn like black armbands of mourning … these displays of unity reassured each of us that we were in this together.

And we still are.

Although it has been twenty years since that terrible day, the ache of loss can quickly be revived by a news report, a photo or a phone call. Current events can be a catalyst for thoughts and emotions that will take time to process.

We must watch out for our wingmen. Take some time during this somber anniversary to ask your fellow Airmen how they are doing. Listen to their stories and care for their well-being. Share your own thoughts and reach out to someone if you need help processing your feelings. We offer abundant resources in this regard. Please use them.

Lt Gen Tom Miller