Reflecting on September 11: A Personal Journey

Memories can last a lifetime, and for many, the morning of September 11, 2001, is unforgettable. On that day, I survived a defining event of history. I was nearly three years old when tragedy struck. Growing up in a military family, my sister Heather and I attended daycare at the Pentagon Child Development Center. It felt like a regular day until history changed.

The Morning That Changed the World

The North Tower of the World Trade Center was hit at 8:46 a.m., followed by the South Tower at 9:03 a.m. Tension filled the Pentagon as news of another hijacked plane spread. At 9:37 a.m., American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon while I was inside. Being so young, I didn’t grasp the situation, but the chaos and evacuation efforts are vivid.

Brave service members helped us evacuate. My infant sister and other babies were placed in cribs and carried to safety. Toddlers like me were guided to a secure spot near Boundary Channel. The daycare workers comforted us until our parents arrived.

Impact and Inspiration

The days following were confusing. My parents reunited with us in the chaos. Though I was only three, the trauma led to childhood regression. However, the experience of evacuation and growing up in a service-centered community influenced my military career.

Learning about the heroes of that day ignited a passion to contribute to rescue missions. Today, I am a captain in the United States Air Force, serving as a TH-1H helicopter instructor pilot.

The events also led my mother to extend her Air Force career. Our family, looking back, realizes how fortunate we were compared to others.

Remembering the Lost

As years pass, I notice a shift in how September 11 is commemorated. Intrigued by the fading memories, I created the Run to Remember 2,977 initiative. My goal is to honor the victims daily, not just annually. I run a mile for each victim, speaking their names. The campaign began with a 9.11-mile run and aims to remember every life lost, including first responders.

This personal tribute quickly resonated with others. Sharing it on social media connects me with families, offering a platform to honor loved ones and educate younger generations about the impact of 9/11.

A Promise to Never Forget

Visiting memorials, I think about lives unlived due to the attacks. Meeting families and hearing their stories has deepened my understanding of national loss and resilience. I feel responsible to uphold the promise to ‘Never Forget’ for future generations.

The 25th anniversary is a chance to reflect on how we collectively honor those impacted. My hope is to continue sharing stories, ensuring they remain part of our history.

Hanna Born, 27, serves as a captain in the U.S. Air Force. Her 2,977-mile tribute honors each victim of September 11, documented on social media. She urges the promise of ‘Never Forget.’