Reflections on 9/11

We asked community members two questions: where were they on Sept. 11, 2001, and what does memorializing the anniversary mean to them?

You’re welcome to add your responses to these questions in the comments section below, and add photos with the green upload button above.

Des Plaines Fire Chief Alan Wax

1. Where were you, and what happened where you were, on Sept. 11, 2001?

I was in the battalion chiefs' office at the fire station watching the news coverage on the TV. When I came-in, the first tower was already on fire, then thought by reporters to be from a hit by a small private plane (although that seemed unlikely to us given the amount of smoke and fire). We watched the second plane (a jetliner) hit the second tower and immediately realized that our country was under attack. We were riveted to the coverage for the remainder of the morning, and, as further developments occurred, we started having discussions about if Chicago was going to need help if buildings there or parts of the city  were going to need evacuation.

2. What does this year's anniversary of 9/11 mean to you?

This year's anniversary means the same as the past 9-11anniversaries: remembering those firefighters lost on 9-11 reminds me how grateful I am to be part of the best job in the world and associated with an outstanding fire department made-up of smart, aggressive, caring firefighters who are passionate about their work and who are relentless in their pursuit of excellence in serving the public during times of danger and crisis. I also appreciate those who have donned the uniforms of the USA, and their families, for their sacrifices in defending our country and our way of life.

Mike Lake, commander of the Des Plaines Veterans of Foreign Wars

1. Where were you, and what happened where you were, on Sept. 11, 2001?

The job I had then was part time. Shortly after the attack on the first tower I was allowed to go home. I remember thinking as I drove to my house that nothing would ever be the same again.

My wife and I watched as the second tower was hit. I sensed that this was what Americans must have felt on December 7th 1941. I was enraged. The cowardice of the attack was beyond belief.

2. What does this year's anniversary of 9/11 mean to you?

We survived as a nation but will never get over it and we will never forget.