Were you inspired to join the military after the 9/11 attacks 20 years ago? Ask questions about VA health care, benefits & services here.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 11:08:29 -0400

Join us as VA Remembers 9/11. Ask us your questions today!
We’ll answer your questions about VA health care, benefits and services.
Date & Time: September 9, 2021, 3:00 - 4:00pm ET

Your questions will be answered on September 9th by the following SME's:
Jennifer Perez, National Director, Post-9/11 Transition and Case Management, VA
James Ruhlman, Acting Executive Director for Education Service, VA
Jessica Schiefer, Communications Officer, VA, Vet Centers
Aaron Eagan, Director – Community-Based Suicide Prevention, VA
SP6 James Theres, Special Projects Manager, National Cemetery Administration
CH (MAJ) Chad Maxey, Chaplain, Program Manager for Family Care and Bereavement, National VA Chaplain Service

Response by LTC John Shaw made Aug 27 at 2021 11:11 AM

LTC John Shaw — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 11:11:20 -0400

I joined in 1986 but I started volunteering for mobilizations and additional training after 9/11. Most everyone wanted to do their part in supporting the Global War on Terrorism and preventing attacks in America, Canada and Western Europe.

Response by MSgt Will Ackerman made Aug 27 at 2021 11:27 AM

MSgt Will Ackerman — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 11:27:24 -0400

We'll post additional information about our SMEs for this VA Q and A. In addition to your recollections of where you were when you heard about the attacks of Sept. 11, we encourage you to post questions here that you might have about any VA benefits, services or health care. Our SMEs will respond to your questions during the Q and A Sept. 9. (Please refrain from posting personal health information to avoid disclosing HIPAA-protected information.) - VA Remembers 9/11 Communications Project Lead

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Aug 27 at 2021 11:29 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 11:29:03 -0400

I had retired the year before after 24 years with the MIARNG, both of my feet had been broken 2 years prior to my retirement, wife was afraid that they would call me back into the service U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Response by MSgt Will Ackerman made Aug 27 at 2021 11:35 AM

MSgt Will Ackerman — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 11:35:39 -0400

I was stationed at RAF Lakenheath in England. We had ended a budget meeting, and we were in the base HQ. A couple of people were watching a TV in the foyer, right before the second aircraft hit the World Trade Center towers. When that second aircraft hit, we knew we were under attack and were going to war. As the public affairs manager for the base, we went into our crisis communications mode. It was 2pm in England. I didn't leave the office until the next morning since we went on 12-hour shifts. It was tragic, but I was also amazed at the outpouring of compassion and love that our British community showed to our assigned service members, families and civilians.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Aug 27 at 2021 2:49 PM

LTC John Shaw — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 14:49:37 -0400

VA question: My older brother is a Gulf War Veteran who served during Desert Storm. I have encouraged him to enroll in VA Health Care and get a number of medical concerns reviewed. He says that Gulf War / Desert Storm Veterans are not covered the same way as I am for OEF / OIF.
Can someone address the benefits for veterans of different service periods (examples: Gulf War / Desert Storm / OIF / OEF) and the best place to start the VA benefits discovery process?

Response by SPC Stacey Lexa made Aug 30 at 2021 12:24 PM

SPC Stacey Lexa — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 12:24:45 -0400

I tried to join the navy after sept 11th but could never pass the darn ASVAB. I finally passed in 2005 and joined the Army instead. Served 4 years but I never deployed because I had 3 kids. I served on rear detachment while my unit went to Afghanistan. Made many friends though. Wouldn't trade anything for the world. Would do it all over again.

Response by CA Audrey Aguilera made Aug 30 at 2021 12:38 PM

CA Audrey Aguilera — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 12:38:43 -0400

Yes I was inspired to join the military after 9/11. I finally left for boot in may of 2002. I got an honorable discharge and have absolutely nothing to show for it because the military refuses to give me anything. They tell me I’m not eligible for anything because I only served one year. Ok that’s fine, but in that one year, I lost the ability to run, I lost the ability to walk probably. I still struggle walking long distances. But I’m not eligible for anything. I made a choice to serve my country. I signed on the dotted line. I did that because I wanted to, not because someone forced me to. I should be given what is rightfully mine.

Response by CDR Jan Kuester made Aug 30 at 2021 1:12 PM

CDR Jan Kuester — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 13:12:39 -0400

As a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist and Navy Nurse Corps Officer with extensive independent duty (land and sea) assignments who had only retired in 1997, I immediately contacted the appropriate office and volunteered to return to active duty. This return would be difficult for my family and current professional obligations but all we’re on board with my decision. I was informed very shortly thereafter that my services were not required. With my experience, several decorations for duties well accomplished and highly marked fitness reports, I was very perplexed and inquired why. As I was in contact with a number of shipmates on both coasts and overseas who bemoaned the fact that the Nurse Corps was undermanned in our specialty, the answer from D. C. that the specialty billets I was fit for were full was not only patently untrue but very disheartening. I felt betrayed, used up and cast aside- not worthy of going to war again (or anywhere else that I was needed). This event took me by complete, shocking surprise and left me wondering if I had ever been more than a warm body performing a necessary function. Some months passed by before I shook myself out of the low spot this placed me in. By reviewing my naval career, I determined that I had done much more than simply perform anesthesia care. I had affected many lives for the better, serving shipmates through leadership, example and education. Still today, there remains a small wound this event made in my heart but I keep it tucked away and until today, had not allowed it to come into the light for many years.

I am grateful to and honor those who have sacrificed and served since my retirement. Thank you- each one of you. You are in the faithful prayers of myself and my family every day.

Response by SSG Victor Stobie made Aug 30 at 2021 1:16 PM

SSG Victor Stobie — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 13:16:04 -0400

At 49 years old I joined up in the National Guard to serve. As a Blackhawk mechanic I was reclassified from a Respiratory Therapist, but always worked on my own equipment. I fell while helping an old friend get firewood and hit my head. I had an aneurysm on my brain that ruptured due to the fall and my life changed from serving our great country to sitting on the sidelines while I recouperated from my injury. I thouroughly enjoyed serving in my new unit and was on orders for deployment. I now spend my days watching the continuing fight for justice. God bless our troops!
God bless

Response by 1SG Duane Cruz made Aug 30 at 2021 3:57 PM

1SG Duane Cruz — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:57:18 -0400

I was serving as a traditional guardsman with the WA Army National Guard. As a former Active Duty Desert Shield/Storm Veteran with the 1st CAV, I felt the need to answer the call to serve again active duty. I ended up becoming a Recruiter for the WA Army National Guard and helped increased the strength of the State. I was inspired to recruit others to carry the guidon and to serve. I now work for the VA as a Post-9/11 Transition Patient Advocate to help Veterans navigate transition from military service to VA Healthcare.

Response by SSgt Patrick McIntyre made Aug 30 at 2021 4:55 PM

SSgt Patrick McIntyre — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:55:58 -0400

I was in the USAFR. I was making a lot more money as a civilian contractor on a Navy base, but I wasn't thinking about money. I had specific skills and training that I thought could be useful. I had discussed this with my wife prior to the phone call. They called me at work and asked if I wanted to be activated and I said "Yes, Of course I do." The next day I get a call saying I was activated and to come out to the Air Force base. The next morning I am sitting at the table waiting for the morning meeting when I said "When I got my call I already knew I wanted to be here." Then almost everyone in the room told me that I was only one out of two in my entire squadron that had volunteered. Because there were not enough volunteers, they decided to activate everyone. I was shocked and a bit confused. I was activated almost a year, then released for a few months before being activated another year (Although they cut it short, didn't tell a few of us until almost two months after we were supposed to be sent home). They got creative with man days, annual tour dates, and back-dated the paperwork to cover their asses. What did I get out of trying to be a model airman? I earned an achievment medal because a Colonel from another base had written some kind words while I spent time out there. Sadly, I never made my next promotion even though I did everything asked of me and all of my training was completed. People who refused to volunteer for post 9/11 would be promoted over me, even though they lacked the experience in our career field. So, maybe I am a bit of a disgruntled veteran. But so far, my experience with the VA has been amazingly positive.

Response by PFC Jade Holmes made Aug 30 at 2021 5:35 PM

PFC Jade Holmes — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 17:35:22 -0400

I joined in the National Guard in Indiana back in 2002. I went to Afghanistan in 2004 During OEF. I think 9/11 did have a very big impact on my decision to join the military.

Response by SGT Jason Klein made Aug 30 at 2021 10:39 PM

SGT Jason Klein — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 22:39:59 -0400

I joined the Army Reserve in Feb,2001 and was 2 weeks from the end of my Basic Training when 9/11 happened. We were taking a class on how to operate the military radio when our Captain came in 3 times to announce each attack by plane. The Drill Sergeants told us all that we were going straight to war after training. Everyone was very nervous and one Private was crying because her uncle worked in the Pentagon and didn't know if he was alive. I can't say that I joined because of 9/11 but it was in the works, you could say!

Response by MSgt Will Ackerman made Aug 31 at 2021 9:20 AM

MSgt Will Ackerman — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 09:20:02 -0400

VA launched its new Post-9/11 Transition and Case Management Home (va.gov) webpage today. Lots of good information about the TCM, M2VA, and VA Liaisons programs (formerly known as OEF/OIF/OND).
We've also posted a page with information about VA Remembers 9/11.
Check it out.
https://www.va.gov/POST911VETERANS/index.asp

index.asp

Response by SFC William Linnell made Sep 1 at 2021 1:17 PM

SFC William Linnell — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 13:17:09 -0400

I signed up back in Nov 83' my SR year. Then off to basic Sep 84'. So I was in for quite awhile. On 9-11 I was at Fort Hood in my tank getting ready to shoot my day run for tank qualification when we were told to clear and elevate and back off the range. Sitting around for hours not knowing what was going on.

Response by 2d Lt Shawn Morin made Sep 1 at 2021 5:37 PM

2d Lt Shawn Morin — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 17:37:53 -0400

Yes. Was in 9th grade when the towers fell and the Pentagon burned. Joined AFROTC at Boston University as soon as I could in 2005, commissioned and served for a short while before being medboarded unfortunately. Never got to the desert like I wanted to feel like I did my part to bring justice to those a-holes and protect us from another one.

Response by PO3 Luis Chile made Sep 1 at 2021 5:58 PM

PO3 Luis Chile — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 17:58:56 -0400

I volunteered the first 3 days in Ground Zero .And after experiencing the havoc and mayhem of the attack .It motivated me to sign up that following month October 11,2001 I swore in

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2021 6:15 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 18:15:20 -0400

History class 7am Mr.Valentine junior year.
I turned 17 that October / Naturalized November / Joined December 2001 and reaching my 20 years soon.

As a Filipino, many of us know how America helped us from the Spanish empire in 1898 then WW2 with the Japanese. My granduncle got a Silver Star as part of the Filipino scouts. This was my time to give back and I've never looked back.

Response by CPT David Gowel made Sep 1 at 2021 7:30 PM

CPT David Gowel — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 19:30:34 -0400

Thanks for taking the time to join us on this anniversary that is important to us all. I entered active duty in 2002, served in Iraq, separated from AD with an honorable discharge in 2008, and served in the Army Reserve for two more years. Would I have any GI bill benefits from my service that my children can use for college?

Response by SSG Tony Vongnaraj made Sep 1 at 2021 7:38 PM

SSG Tony Vongnaraj — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 19:38:30 -0400

I joined the army at the age of 17 in March 2001. I wanted to go active duty but because I was a junior in high school, I was only able to go as a reservist (split ops). My recruiter sold me on the "army paying you for college" scheme but was only partially right. Since I was 17, I had to get a signed permission document on paper from my parents. My mom hesitated with me joining but agreed that it was gonna be a good experience for me. As far as my dad, he was working a double last night so when the recruiter gave him paperwork to sign, he was already half asleep. So I packed my bags and headed out the door. My dad stopped me and said, "where are you going, son?" I told him I joined the military and am shipping out right now. I reminded him that he signed for me to go but he thought it was a permission slip to go on a field trip (in a way, it kinda was!) Anyways, I went to basic training at Fort Jackson, SC (aka relaxing jackson) where I was with Delta company 2/60 (Scouts Out!). It was an interesting training, drill sergeants rotating every 3 weeks to a month so I had a total of 6 different drill sergeants. Of course, they all jacked up the pronunciation of my last name so I was either "V-alphabet" or "V-J". Luckily the nick name VJ stuck with me all of my military career. On my day of learning grappling Jiu-Jitsu, I've had not one but two interesting people who were my partner. One was a male who kept squealing every time I literally grabbed him, so I asked DS if I could get a new partner and had this female who literally whipped my ass. Fun times! We've had all types of "Gomer Pyle" soldiers in my platoon and groups who only stuck together based on their hometown locations. I was part of the Jersey Boys (Camden, Elizabeth, Cherry Hill and Atlantic City). We all thought we were hot shit until we all went to the range, shooting barely sharpshooters. Once basic training was damn near completed, we all marched onto the ceremonial field, on Sept 11th, 2001. I've never seen such a ceremony where the bleachers were pretty much a ghost town. I was actually curious because when I had my 30 seconds of phone time, my parents said they were gonna be there. We all thought nothing of it and did our whole parade rest, attention and salute. We then marched back to our common area and I see 1SG wheeling the big screen TV and turn it on. There, I was shocked, eyes watering, body shaking, heart racing. Twin towers going down. I remember my parents telling me that they were going to visit family in the Bronx, NY and will take LaGuardia Airport to fly down to see me graduate. I felt scared, scared for my parents, whom were supposed to be on a plane from NY to SC. Then 1SG told everyone to contact their family if they are in NY. I rushed to the pay phone and called my parents. I called, no answer. Called again, no answer. I started freaking the hell out and kept calling and calling and calling. Finally, someone answered. It was my mom. I cried to my mom, "Mom, are you guys ok? I see the twin towers going down and I hear a plane crashed into it!" Luckily, my mom told me they were ok and heading back to NJ. They were told all flights were cancelled so they decided to go home and wait until I called (of course they couldn't call me because back then we only had pay phones). So, 2 buses and 2 train rides later, I finally made it home. I had to go to school right after because they threatened to expel me due to being a couple weeks late for my senior year. Luckily, I graduated with no honors and finished my AIT training June 2002. So 9/11 didn't encourage me to join, but I pretty much fell into the whole 9/11 incident.

Response by 1SG David Kienzl made Sep 1 at 2021 7:47 PM

1SG David Kienzl — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 19:47:12 -0400

I was active duty Army from 1984-1990 then transitioned to a civilian where I was making a comfortable living until 9-11 happened. I was pissed because there was nothing I could do about it as a civilian, so after a 12 year break in service I re-enlisted back in the Army at age 36. I had to redo basic training again, plus I lost all my rank from my prior service. I was an E6 when I ETS’d in 1990, and when I came back in in Jan 2002, I was an E2. I deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan and stayed active duty until last year when I retired as an E8 with 25 years active duty service. NO REGRETS.

Response by 1SG James R. made Sep 1 at 2021 8:35 PM

1SG James R. — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:35:12 -0400

I had enlisted the Army National Guard at 17 in while still in high school 1979 immediately after the Soviet Union had invaded Afghanistan. This was just a few years after the end of the Vietnam War and I understood that service in the National Guard would likely prevent me from being drafted when I turned 18 should the United States decide to take direct action against the Soviet Union. Ironically, 25 years later I was still a member of the National Guard being a full time since 1985 serving in Active Guard/Reserve and federal technician positions when I was ordered/volunteered to an 16 man Embedded Training Team (ETT) deploying to Afghanistan, the very conflict country I initially joined to avoid being sent to. My time in service to my nation and state had seen a change in public opinion from open public distain to public acclaim. I am proud to have served in Afghanistan during the process of bringing Afghanistan under central governmental control being directly involved in removing local, unaligned, government officials from power and installing governments accountable to the central government of five distinct areas immediately preceding the first democratic elections in Afghanistan and several months following. The 16 man team had been split into several two man teams deploying far and wide with Afghan National Army (ANA) Infantry Kandak units. The ANA units I served with were deployed and stabilized in place. Then the two man ETT team would return to Kabul and receive newly readied ANA Kandaks to begin another deployment to new unfriendly and once friendly areas. I served in every geographic area from the east to the west to the north and finally the south. It never occurred to me while in Afghanistan that I had enlisted in 1979 to avoid Afghanistan until I returned to the United States. There was never any hesitation on my part when I was invited to participate in Operation Enduring Freedom as a ETT serving with a newly formed foreign military on what I consider highly dangerous, remote missions with little to no military direct support other than the ingenuity your partner and you were able to execute on site.

Response by LT P Shearer made Sep 1 at 2021 8:38 PM

LT P Shearer — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:38:09 -0400

11SEP01. I had to wait in line at Pearl's main gate to show ID. “Who does a drill this early in the morning,” I thought. I started Muster outside the ships perimeter fence at 0545 for Repair Party 5. I notice that the perimeter gate was secure with our guys standing armed M-14 watches. The Krispy Kream donut delivery guy was locked out. He told me we are at war, the Pentagon had been hit. I ran through and reported onboard. Our Commanding Officer was stuck in Las Vegas with grounded flights. Our Guided Missile Cruiser PORT ROYAL could not get underway. I had torn down both flash distillers for repairs. SUPPO was in charge, without water.
Naval Surface Forces Middle Pacific, Admiral Robert Conway switched his flag from Base Headquarters to PORT ROYAL. All other ships sortied into defensive positions around Oahu. ADM Conway authorized PORT ROYAL to radiate the SPY-1B Fire Control Radar, brought the illuminators and the vertical launched missile system online.
The first tower of the World Trade Center collapsed as PORT ROYAL went to General Quarters for over six hours. I was in Repair 5 locker with my fire team dressed out in fire fighting ensembles. I had to manage my damage control team’s rotation through 'Circle Zebra' battle messing. PORT ROYAL tracked all aircraft and was prepared to shoot down civilian airliners from Japan and Asia that could not be turned around because of fuel.
Then we deployed early as Air Defense Commander for the STENNIS Battle Group. STENNIS conducted raids into Afghanistan for the Battle of Tora Bora and Operation ANACONDA.

Response by SSgt Donald Hahn made Sep 1 at 2021 8:47 PM

SSgt Donald Hahn — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:47:14 -0400

I wanted to get back in.

Response by SPC Hector Castro made Sep 1 at 2021 10:24 PM

SPC Hector Castro — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 22:24:00 -0400

Ok it has been 20 yrs. since 9/11. Remembering everything that happened that day still gives me nightmares. The night before, I got off duty and went home to get some sleep. In the morning, my then spouse at the time woke me up to hurry and look at the TV. That is when I saw one the towers on fire. At first, I thought it was a movie on TV. But I realized this was real and it was happening. A few minutes later is when I had gotten two calls one from the National Guards and the other from my EMS station. Both telling me to report in. I had to get back into uniform and leave to the nearest EMS station. When I arrived at the nearest EMS Stationed. I met up with others from all over and filled up whatever Vehicles we can find. We all went to the World Trade Center. When we arrived at the World Trade Center, that is when I found out a second plane had hit the other tower.

We started to create a triage center at a firehouse that was across the street from the World Trade Center. As we were setting up, I heard a rumbling sound, and I was pushed into the firehouse by a firefighter. Then everything went dark. I did not realize that one of the towers had collapsed. I never saw which fireman push me in, but he saved my life that day. I never got to see him again. I was surprised that the firehouse withstood the impact. I am not sure how long we were in the firehouse, but after a while we were able to get out through a back door. I never even noticed the second tower had already collapsed.

Everyone that was there just started to pull people out and get them to safety. When I went back in all I could hear was someone screaming for help. As I was moving towards the scream, I heard another one, then another one they were coming from all directions. It got so bad that I did not know which way to go. All I could do is go to the nearest scream to help then keep going to find whoever and get them out the area then go back in to find more. There were times that I would find people that were lost and directed them out.

I did not realize what kind of effect it had on me until a few years ago when I started to remember little details. One was feeling helpless, working as a first responder I did feel this is what I wanted to do, this is where I belong. I believed that I could do anything. But that day I was wrong, in real life I was not superman, I cannot save everyone. I do not remember how long I stood awake. But then I do not remember what was keeping me up.

After a while I have finally was able to go went home. On my way home I have had so many strangers helping me. One person gave me a lift to the nearest train station that was running. Then getting on the train people got up off their seats to let me rest, the conductor on the train came over to me and ask me where I was going, and he will make sure I don't miss me stop. When I got off the train some of the neighbors saw me and helped me get home. They were all helping my family while I was gone. When I was home, my wife said she was scared because I was gone for days. I told her no, I was only gone a few hours. She told me no it has been a couple of days. I am not sure how is that possible, but she was right. I was able to contact my National Guard Unit. My lieutenant told me, we know where you’re at, not to worry just keep doing your job.

One neighbor took my uniform and had it cleaned for me. I was able to get about 4 hours of sleep, I still got up, got dressed and went back to the World Trade Center. Still seeing the devastation, I continued to search for people.

I later went to my National Guard Unit and was assigned to guard the perimeter of the World Trade Center. The reason I was assigned to this was because I knew the area and what was needed Watching over 300 soldiers and advising what was needed to do was difficult. But this was easy compared to what I was doing on that day. Even though I never got to see the firefighter who saved me, I did go back to that firehouse 3 years ago and thanked every firefighter that was there. To this day I still have mixed feelings about that day. Still with fears, anger, and depression, Still losing sleep around that time of year.

I realized that when I went back to New York and visited the memorial. I had broken down crying remembering of what happened. There is not much I can do now. All I can do is keep remembering all those who lost their lives and keep trying to move forward.

Response by PFC Alexandria Poulsen made Sep 1 at 2021 11:18 PM

PFC Alexandria Poulsen — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 23:18:36 -0400

Yes. I joined February 8th, 2002. After the attacks of September 11th I joined the army. Basic training was overfill with new recruits and returning services members. So I was sent from Fort Jackson, SC to Fort Leonardwood, MS. My drill sgts were reservist called up to train us. I had a hard start MOS so I missed my class start date. I didn't make it to Afghanistan but I was deployed March 19th 2003 to Kuwait then Iraq.

Response by LTC Kenenth Westcott made Sep 1 at 2021 11:49 PM

LTC Kenenth Westcott — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 23:49:11 -0400

By the time this happened I had been retired and been determined 100% + service connected disabled for my lungs and heart. (chemical fires) I sure wanted to go back but just not able. I still see that morning clear as day in my mind. Don't believe it will ever leave me.

Response by PFC Ethan W made Sep 2 at 2021 3:58 AM

PFC Ethan W — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 03:58:25 -0400

I joined after 9/11, it turns out the whole war was a lie, and now my friends are dead and they will be dead forever. Bush and Cheney lied, Obama and Biden lied… Now we’ve had two presidents in a row that are child molesters

Response by SPC William Donovan made Sep 2 at 2021 7:22 AM

SPC William Donovan — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 07:22:39 -0400

I joined in November 2001. I was in graduate school for painting at the Univ of Iowa, and ended up going to Kandahar Afghanistan for one year, May 04 to May 05, with Iowa City Army National Guard. The Army took good care of us. That experience changed the way I see the world, and made me really grateful to have grown up in the USA.

Response by PO1 Deb Flynn made Sep 2 at 2021 8:12 AM

PO1 Deb Flynn — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:12:23 -0400

I joined in 1981. When 9/11 happened I was ready to re-up but due to age was not able to. But, I was ready and would have for sure.

Response by MSgt C A Valgardson made Sep 2 at 2021 8:20 AM

MSgt C A Valgardson — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:20:10 -0400

I was AD '85-'91, full time ANG '91-'97, then IRR. Right after Labor Day 2001, I submitted an application through the local Recruiters office for a full-time Augmentee position. The morning of 9/11, I watched live from the West Coast as the Towers came down, called the Recruiters office as soon as they opened that day. I asked to pull my package and review it to return to AD. My friends started calling later that day, asking "when are you leaving?", they all knew I'd go before I even said anything. I had to get an age waiver, and another 2 months for service verification and security clearance. I was finally accepted , and reenlisted the week before my 39th birthday. It took 5 years of volunteering for every deployment before I finally shipped off to Camp Victory, Iraq for 12 months. Seven years later, I had to retire. Can't believe it's been twenty years since that fateful morning.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2021 10:06 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 10:06:33 -0400

I was early in adolescence when 9/11 happened, still in junior high, and growing up in the rural Midwest I was always one of those "it can't happen to us here in the US" people. Illusions of safety and security. And then that Tuesday happened. At first I had no idea what was going on - it was 7:45 and the radio on the school bus was staticky. When I arrived for my first class that day, all we had were rumors and speculation. I can remember not doing anything in my first class, since we were trying to figure out what had happened but couldn't. At the heart of all of them was the news that something huge had happened in New York.

An hour and a half later (about 10:00 Central time, after everything had unfolded on the Eastern Seaboard) I reported to a classroom that finally had TVs. And that was the first time I learned, in a really tangible way, about what had happened. That was also the first time that a rural Midwesterner understood how small the world really, truly is.

Five years after that I would join up. But I think that 9/11 was the first time that the idea really firmed itself in my mind.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2021 10:30 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 10:30:15 -0400

9/11 attacks and September 11th tribute to the sacrifices that our military and First Responders made to protect America. USA Olympians, Paul Wahlberg, the U...

Response by Sgt Jennytza Cintron made Sep 2 at 2021 10:56 AM

Sgt Jennytza Cintron — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 10:56:30 -0400

I was in my senior year of high school, living in NYC and on sept 11, I was scheduled to go down to the recruiting office right by the World Trade Center when the unthinkable happened. My father worked across the street from the towers but luckily made it out safely. I didn’t go downtown that day but instead waited about a week or so before heading out there. My mind had been made up about enlisting before sept 11, but the attacks just made my resolve stronger. I went to boot camp that following summer and stayed enlisted for almost 10 years.

Response by PFC Tiffany Sparks made Sep 2 at 2021 11:45 AM

PFC Tiffany Sparks — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 11:45:52 -0400

I was working at Wegmans in the bakery department when the planes hit. I was 21 and I felt helpless. Like I wanted to do something. So I joined. It took me a year because I was 100lbs overweight but I was determined to Do something and not feel helpless. So after losing the hundred lbs I signed on the dotted line one year later on Sept 16th. 2002. I am now a disabled veteran but back then I believed at.least I did something

Response by CDR Bryan Crittendon made Sep 2 at 2021 3:21 PM

CDR Bryan Crittendon — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 15:21:43 -0400

I had out of the military since 1985, having been caught in a RIF when 9-11 took place. I has served as a commissioned officer and was serving as a local church pastor. It took a couple of years but I was brought on board as a reserve military chaplain in April 2003 and came on active duty Dec. 1, 2003. I left on first combat deployment in 2005. It was an honor to served as chaplain to the incredible men and women of our armed services. I was my privilege to be assigned to units in the Navy, USMC and USCG and deployed with each branch.

Response by CPT William Watson made Sep 3 at 2021 10:38 AM

CPT William Watson — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 10:38:13 -0400

On 9/11, I was working at my civilian IT job. I watched the second tower go down live on TV, it was a day I will never forget. I was a weekend warrior in an Army Reserve Battalion. By October 11, our Battalion was on standby. We had One unit activated, An Airborne Rigger Unit, the Unit was scrambling to fill all the slots to deploy at full capacity. They were looking for a platoon leader that was Airborne Tabbed/Qualified. I got one call and they asked if I was interested in the slot. I informed them that I had two (twins) that were just born in March 2001. I asked them to look around if anybody else was interested. Two days later, I got another call, Nobody else volunteered. So, In November 2001, I moved into the new Unit. We were one of the first (if not the first) Reserve Units to deploy for Operation Enduring Freedom. We were deployed to Germany for humanitarian Airdrops, Ordnance, and SOF support. We worked for 7 months, 24 hours a day at a high tempo.

Most of my Airborne Rigger Unit soldiers never stepped foot on the Afghanistan Soil. We supported everything that went downrange. The SOF guys were in and down range. When we started (November 2001) there was only an estimated 30 SOF Soldiers on the ground. By the end of our tour, we had won the war with limited causalities and had several hundred SOF soldiers on the ground that we supported.

I write this because a lot of the VA Health Care and Benefits skip this Units qualifications. The Unit deployed within the first two months for Operation Enduring Freedom (Vanguard of the Army) but was returned to the US before they stepped foot on the soil. They were the first responders! But they don’t get the benefits of others. We were also the first unit (est.) to return to the United States. On our return in 2002, we never heard about VA Benefits, and never got a return Health Physical. We were not there to file health records and go to the medic, we had a job to do. We were connected and supporting the SOF community, we were not slowing down. The Unit worked hard in 2001-2002 and doesn’t deserve to wait for years of appeals to get disability, if awarded. These 116 forgotten soldiers need attention!

Signed,
The forgotten Airborne Riggers Unit

Response by SGT Ivory Brown made Sep 4 at 2021 12:21 AM

SGT Ivory Brown — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 00:21:00 -0400

I got out in 97, saw the world trade center collapse and decided to come back in. I'm from Long Island New York. I was hurt and pissed and during my career I deployed 5 times to Iraq starting from 2003.

Response by Sgt Jamie Beaulieu made Sep 4 at 2021 9:20 AM

Sgt Jamie Beaulieu — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 09:20:12 -0400

I was inspired by the threat terrorists posed before 9/11. From the moment they bombed the World Trade Center in 1993 to now I have endeavoured to honor the sacrifices of those who sought to prevent them from provoking conflicts the Pentagon repeatedly said were most likely to end for us as they had for the Soviet Union, primarily because neither of our militaries was thoroughly prepared to fight the guerrilla forces collectively known as the Mujahideen. I volunteered for service in Somalia, thinking it would provide an opportunity to hone skills necessary to combat such a force. I worked alongside secret service agents who worked to ensure the vulnerabilities terrorists identified while probing the security of our airlines were not used to target the president. And I tried to acquire the influence necessary to assist in the development of a force capable of dismantling the terrorist network responsible for those concerns before they could provoke us. I'd like to commend those leaders with the Naval War College Marine Detachment and the Naval Officer Training Commands who did all they could to produce officers who would advocate for this approach and for the Department of Defense to take the leading role only it was qualified to take in this decision making process. They did an admirable job that I'm afraid has gone largely unnoticed due to the strategic shift that resulted in Washington politicians assuming that role and relegating defense officials who should have made these decisions to only facilitate their desires.

Response by CW2 Michael Bodnar made Sep 4 at 2021 10:12 AM

CW2 Michael Bodnar — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 10:12:30 -0400

I was an active duty Marine at the time stationed at CENTCOM headquarters in Tampa FL. To say my life changed (along with everyone else) that day is an understatement.

Response by SSgt Don Ursery made Sep 4 at 2021 11:29 AM

SSgt Don Ursery — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 11:29:27 -0400

God bless America

Response by SSG Craig Justus made Sep 4 at 2021 12:52 PM

SSG Craig Justus — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 12:52:23 -0400

Inspiration doesent even come close to describing the way I felt after the attacks on 9/11. I had been off of active duty for over 10 years when I raised my right hand, driven to serve again.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2021 1:22 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 13:22:02 -0400

I joined in ‘07 but was delayed entry since ‘06. I did join to help the fight. I never would had imagined 15 more years of war would follow. I separated at 12 years and at that point there had been two Afghan surges, one Iraq surge and Africa was starting to become another area. I pray for the men and women of our armed services and wish them well in all their endeavors.

Response by MCPO Hilary Kunz made Sep 5 at 2021 7:17 PM

MCPO Hilary Kunz — Sun, 05 Sep 2021 19:17:11 -0400

The year before I had just retired after 25 years active duty. I called the recruiters to go back, but there were apparently no billets, I was a mostly sea-going rate and those limited-in-number jobs were already filled with the folks still on active duty.

Response by MSG Tony Coppolino made Sep 6 at 2021 8:09 AM

MSG Tony Coppolino — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 08:09:51 -0400

My wife and I were vacationing on th big island of Hawaii, Kona. I received a call from our daughter who was in Colorado during the attack. Turning on the news we couldn’t believe what was taking place. I immediately contacted my Home Station which was located on Oahu to volunteer for anything that my Command needed to support this attack. I stood by helplessly in my effort especially being so close to my Command Center. A day that will never be forgotten!
Retired US Army MSG Coppolino

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2021 11:20 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:20:31 -0400

I enlisted in the Marine Corps days before 9/11 and despite the backlash I got from friends and family, I continued with my calling to serve. 17 years later, I've exited the Corps with many thanks to our veteran supporters. Questions for our SMEs. I'm a first time home buyer and serious about buying a home. I have my CoE of two years. Is it still valid? What's the next step in the home buying process? I reside in Texas.

Response by CPL Ronald Dudas made Sep 7 at 2021 11:21 AM

CPL Ronald Dudas — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:21:51 -0400

I got out of the army in 1964. I was 59 when the towers were hit. I was so pisses and wanted to help in any capacity but no one would take me because of my age. I finally joined the USCG Auxiliary and actively worked SAR with active duty for almost 17 years. Not much compared to the rest of you brave men, but in my mind I felt better. I shell never forget that day.

Response by Cpl L Ortiz made Sep 7 at 2021 1:44 PM

Cpl L Ortiz — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 13:44:49 -0400

I am a "Cold War" Marine Corp Veteran, therefore my experience with 9/11 is somewhat personal as I can vividly remember sitting in my living room, one morning and turning on the television to find every single channel broadcasting the destruction of the towers and I sat in awe for a while then ran to my rooftop, as I lived just miles from the Hudson River and was not prepared for what my eyes beheld as I literally watched the towers burn. A day that will live in my mind... forever! And the destruction of our human race... tragically still continues, least any care to admit. For as it was in the days of NOAH... God help us ALL!

Response by SP5 John Walters made Sep 7 at 2021 2:05 PM

SP5 John Walters — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 14:05:54 -0400

No . I was too old . I served as a sergeant in 1/22nd for 18 months .

Response by SPC Roger Dunn made Sep 7 at 2021 3:02 PM

SPC Roger Dunn — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 15:02:48 -0400

When 9/11 happened that when I found out I had been ghosted into a reserve unit for 2yrs. In N.D and I lived in Mn. After fixing everything I ended up going to Iraq in Feb 2003 with only 32 days left to serve. I did 14 months in Iraq wirh NO comment to the Army. that includes no irr time.

Response by Cpl Arturo Gonzalez made Sep 7 at 2021 3:10 PM

Cpl Arturo Gonzalez — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 15:10:26 -0400

I enlisted in the USMC in 1999 because I was inspired by the Gulf War. I was in Camp Pendleton, San Mateo in the 1stBTL 5thMAR DIV, make peace or die Wpns. Co. 81's PLT. On that day we were just starting our guard duty after our first deployment. I was in the Guard shack in the reck room gathered around the tv when I saw it happen live on tv. It was a terrible day we will never forget. That March in that year we were first to deploy to Iraq for OIF. After that day I remember the faces of civilians were in bereavement. We made them pay for what they did, God was with us that day and he has never left the USA. God bless the U.S.A.

Response by SMSgt Michael Gleason made Sep 7 at 2021 6:08 PM

SMSgt Michael Gleason — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 18:08:26 -0400

I was inspired to STAY IN the military by the events of 9/11! I was on terminal leave before retiring, and they wouldn't let me do a THING on base because of my leave status! In frustration, I spent three long days at the local Red Cross Blood Bank, answering calls and questions. While gratifying, it just wasn't the same as being "in the thick of things" on base!

(ONE effect of the events of 9/11 was that my actual retirement date was "indefinitely suspended", and I didn't find that out until our commander told me, "publicly", at my retirement party!

Response by MSgt Will Ackerman made Sep 8 at 2021 9:28 AM

MSgt Will Ackerman — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 09:28:11 -0400

As part of our #VARemembers 9/11 to honor the lives lost on that tragic day 20 years ago and the heroes who responded, we have interviews with 9 people who share their stories.
#veteransaffairs #september11 #neverforget #Veterans
The link to their stories is at:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3AQ_JVoBEyxOvOHWaVrKvgQY7z1hSChy

playlist

Response by TSgt William Meyer made Sep 8 at 2021 11:43 AM

TSgt William Meyer — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 11:43:53 -0400

I didn’t join after 9/11, in addition to being a NYC Police Officer, I was also in the NY Air National Guard. Basically the State activated me first and then we were Federally Activated on 01 Nov 01. I did 1 1/2 years on active duty, went back to the NYPD, and than was re-activated title 10, Nov ‘03 and retired in Nov’07

Response by PO2 Stephen Brinkley (Scott) made Sep 8 at 2021 11:55 AM

PO2 Stephen Brinkley (Scott) — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 11:55:19 -0400

My anniversary is 9/11/1998! But 9/11/2001 continues to slither in my brain! August of 1999, my Electronic Technician class was graduating and picking orders. My good friend and little brother Caballero allowed me to take orders to appease a woman and he took orders to the Pentagon! He was a WSC-3 & WSC-6 tech and when the plane hit the Pentagon, the WSC shop was the primary impact point. I live everyday with survivors guilt!

Response by Sgt Dave Knight made Sep 8 at 2021 12:01 PM

Sgt Dave Knight — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 12:01:10 -0400

I was a senior in high school when 9/11 happened. I remember sitting in Literature class when the TV automatically came on in the classroom, just seconds before the second plane hit the tower. It was a moment I’ll remember for the rest of my life. 9/11 had a lot to do with me joining the Marines, but the military was something I always wanted to pursue as a child.

Response by MSgt Mark Bucher made Sep 8 at 2021 12:34 PM

MSgt Mark Bucher — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 12:34:52 -0400

I had 19 years in on 9/11, ended up staying almost 5 more years after the attack. I stayed the additional years because I could not have sent my troops over there without me leading them. I did 3 deployments, 1 in Afghanistan and 2 in Iraq. I brought all of my people home in one piece physically. We all saw and photographed scenes you can never forget, that was our job. We still talk amongst ourselves, that bond knows no time or distance barriers.

Response by SFC Victor Serrano made Sep 8 at 2021 12:53 PM

SFC Victor Serrano — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 12:53:58 -0400

I was already in the military in 2001. I was stationed in Germany at the time and after that event, deployments became the norm.

Response by TSgt Chuck Mankin made Sep 8 at 2021 1:03 PM

TSgt Chuck Mankin — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 13:03:01 -0400

I joined the peace time military in 86. The Russians were more of a scary story than an enemy. Then I went to Alaska and got to see just how much of a real enemy they were. On 9/11 I was a full time guardsman and had just recently returned from a short deployment to Prince Sultan AB in Saudi. The security posture there sure set the tone on how serious the threat was. Little did I know I'd soon experience that level of security at my home station. Being a volunteer fireman I was torn on that day. On one hand I wanted to grab my fire gear and rush from PA to NYC to help my brothers who were trapped. On the other hand I knew my military life had just changed dramatically and I was needed there more than in NYC. We spooled up to a 24/7365 posture for over a year and soon enough our C130's and the crews were off to the war. I'd get my chance in 2007 to deploy to Afghanistan for a bit.

9/11 had a very big impact on my military life. I got experience what it was like to really serve in a combat zone and to experience death and real fear of an attack and death.

Response by SFC Josh Billingsley made Sep 8 at 2021 1:24 PM

SFC Josh Billingsley — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 13:24:34 -0400

I was in basic training prepping for a field exercise when the towers were hit. I didn't see the footage until months later.. It didn't influence my decision to join but did impact my decision to stay in.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Sep 8 at 2021 2:35 PM

SFC Stephen King — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 14:35:45 -0400

I woke up early to get to the recruiting station, my Wife called me and was explaining to me the events. I left the station and got a radio so we could here the reports as it happened. As an Recruiter I saw an influx of those choosing to serve. I knew that day life was never going to be the same. The evil of terrorism had come to or soil. Now, I see 20 years later we are now accepting these terrorists as normal.

We also need to never forget this horrible event as well. 911 be vigilant and watch your 6 (The fact that the Taliban is instilling there Gov't on this day makes me wonder.)

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/remembering-2012-benghazi-attack

Remembering the 2012 Benghazi attack that killed 4 Americans: 'The US will never forget this...

Fridayis not only a day for solemn memorials for the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks but it's also the somber anniversary of the Benghazi attack that killed four Americans.

Response by SPC Brian Mason made Sep 8 at 2021 2:59 PM

SPC Brian Mason — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 14:59:37 -0400

I didn't join until mid-2003.
I was at a job where I'd have to take the department head's job or go into white-collar boring management. I joined for many reasons not just 9-11. I KNEW I wanted to be a Medic. Despite trying to 'fill slots and quota' I got my MOS and a later ship date. I don't regret my decision and I did 18 months in the NG in my home state as well.

Response by CH (MAJ) Chad Maxey made Sep 8 at 2021 3:36 PM

CH (MAJ) Chad Maxey — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 15:36:12 -0400

I was serving as a chaplain at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. I received a page to contact the chaplain office after the plane hit the first tower. We watched the second plane hit the tower and saw the track of the plane that hit the Pentagon. At that point, I was sent to the Emergency Department to prepare for wounded service members from the Pentagon. We got all geared up to receive patients who did not arrive. Almost all the wounded went to trauma centers near to the Pentagon or were killed in the attack. We provide spiritual support for the service members during the search and recovery mission at the Pentagon.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Sep 8 at 2021 3:51 PM

SSG Carlos Madden — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 15:51:54 -0400

The idea had been rolling around my head a little but after 9/11 it was pretty clear that it wasn't if it was something I wanted to do or not, but something I needed to.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2021 5:06 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 17:06:21 -0400

I'm actually a pre-9/11 vet. I joined in '97, right out of high school, mainly to "get away from home", but also to do something more with my life. I didn't want to work in my Uncle's plumbing business, and I didn't want to fester bagging groceries or anything like that, so I signed up to "let the journey begin". After my first duty station overseas, a couple of deployments, and the prospect of nothing going for me back home, I decided to stay in, and THAT was when I began to love what I did for the country. In 2006, I was assigned as an instructor, teaching convoy operations, machine guns, basic warfighting skills to fellow Sailors, and seeing them come home alive. I realized then that it wasn't about what I wanted, it was about what my Nation NEEDED: people willing to uphold & defend freedom not just for Americans, but for all sorts of people around the world.

Response by SFC Wilfredo Ramos made Sep 8 at 2021 5:13 PM

SFC Wilfredo Ramos — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 17:13:43 -0400

I was stationed at Ft. Hood, TX on the day of the attacks (HHC 1-5 CAV). As MSgt Ackerman, I was watching TV just before the second plane hit the World Trade Center towers and this happened after PT that morning, I went ahead to get dressed and went back to my unit. There was no doubt that it was a terrorist attack. I'll never forget that day. It was a long day, we all knew that this represented a declaration of war.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2021 5:27 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 17:27:15 -0400

I was already in the service when 9/11 happened. I was stationed in Germany at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center when the Towers were hit.

Response by LTC Richard Wasserman made Sep 8 at 2021 5:33 PM

LTC Richard Wasserman — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 17:33:49 -0400

No, I was already in the Army

Response by SSG William Jones made Sep 8 at 2021 6:02 PM

SSG William Jones — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:02:51 -0400

I had been out of the service for 2 years. I was 53 years old and had received my second DD-214. I certainly was ready to defend our homeland but this time as a civilian Patriot. Some people call that a III% grass roots defender. Whatever its called doesn’t matter. I will defend this great nation that is so blessed by God‼️

Response by SFC Linda Clipp made Sep 8 at 2021 6:23 PM

SFC Linda Clipp — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:23:02 -0400

I was inspired to try to re-join after having retired in 1995. Can't let a good opportunity to fight for us go to waste. Needless to say, I was quite ineligible, dammit.

Response by SSG Steven Chirco made Sep 8 at 2021 6:44 PM

SSG Steven Chirco — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:44:36 -0400

I originally joined in 1994. I had been discharged from active duty at Ft. Bragg, 1-325th A.I.R. In ‘99. I was working at Kaiser in the ER as a tech on the night shift. I had gotten up and was driving to my parents house and listening to Howard Stern. He started saying the Towers had been hit. I thought it was one of his skits. When I got to my parents house I learned it was not. Not long after I reupped in the reserves as a 37F and was gone for until 2013 basically. Iraq and Afghanistan a few other choice places.

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Sep 8 at 2021 6:59 PM

Cpl Vic Burk — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:59:41 -0400

I had already completed my time many years before this but yes, if they would have let me reenlist I would have seriously considered going back in.

Response by PO2 Kirk Saville made Sep 8 at 2021 7:40 PM

PO2 Kirk Saville — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:40:04 -0400

I was working as an A&P mechanic for an airline on swing shift and was still sleeping that morning. My neighbor called and asked if I was watching TV, I said that I wasn't. He said turn on the TV and I'll be right over. We were watching when the second aircraft hit the second tower. I knew in my heart that the first one was not an accident as I watched. When we saw the second one hit I knew we were being attacked. I sat in a state of shock for a time. When I learned that two of the aircraft used that day were my aircraft! Aircraft I had worked on, flight crews I had worked with. The shock turned to anger. I was 47 at the time, 15 years into my career. Too old to go back to the military.
I retired from my airline career after nearly 26 years. Eventually I was able to get a DoD cleanance and became a contractor. I deployed with a few Special Ops Squadrons to many of the hot spots around the globe to aid the War on Terror. I feel as though in some ways I have contributed to the efforts.
I have again retired, this time I more because of COVID-19 then for any other reason. I was unable to deploy again and felt it was time to quit and make room for someone else to carry on. Those jobs and experiences remain the most satisfying work I have done in 36 years as an aircraft mechanic / aircraft inspector. I worked with our Nations Best.

Response by MSgt Jason McClish made Sep 8 at 2021 7:58 PM

MSgt Jason McClish — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:58:39 -0400

No, I was already assigned to my first duty station, Sembach Annex, Germany.

Response by SPC Adam Dinitz made Sep 8 at 2021 8:00 PM

SPC Adam Dinitz — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 20:00:59 -0400

No, I was in from 1991-1999. I enlisted during the 1st Golf war. I did not need the USA to get me in. I did take full advantage of the school benefits, I’m now a PhD with no school bills.

Response by Capt Tobey Thatcher made Sep 8 at 2021 9:02 PM

Capt Tobey Thatcher — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:02:14 -0400

I was already in. Went into the USAF about 5 months before 9/11. I was in Tech School in CA. Someone came in and said something about a plane hitting the WTC.

Response by 1SG Steven Imerman made Sep 8 at 2021 9:12 PM

1SG Steven Imerman — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:12:16 -0400

I had already retired, four years previously.

Response by CSM Clifford Fargason made Sep 8 at 2021 9:51 PM

CSM Clifford Fargason — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:51:28 -0400

I joined the Army on March 23rd 1972, so 9/11 had nothing to do with my Army career at the time. On 9/11 my wife and I were at San Antonio on leave from Ft McCoy Wisconsin. We scrambled to get back to base even though we were not due back for awhile. Obviously our air reservations were gone so we tried to get permission to take our rental car to Minneapolis where our vehicle was at. They wanted $3000 for the one way trip, but I was able to talk with Avis and they just charged us the daily rate.

Response by GySgt Vincent Pirato made Sep 8 at 2021 11:19 PM

GySgt Vincent Pirato — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 23:19:27 -0400

I was already in the military at the time of 9/11. We all knew our time to react was forthcoming and we were proud to serve in that capacity.

Response by SPC Michael Terrell made Sep 8 at 2021 11:27 PM

SPC Michael Terrell — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 23:27:15 -0400

I had already served, and my active duty had ended in 1974. My health was too poor to return to the Army by the time it happened.

Response by CPL Jb Mac made Sep 8 at 2021 11:28 PM

CPL Jb Mac — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 23:28:46 -0400

My unit 204Eng C co was there we were out of Harlem and showed up in full force but was turned away at first then we came back and they gave us jobs
We were activated ARNG and some of us stayed a few months after activation ended
We were involved and wished we could have saved so many

I went active in December I wanted to go to Afghanistan but we ended up with a different war and we slowly realized how it was all a political power play
My heart breaks as a New Yorker as my mom was working as a 911 dispatcher and how I was literally sitting in the towers a week prior how my bf at the time would be taking the path train in building seven at 8:30 am every day to NJ and not knowing and a few ppl I deeply loved died
It’s hard to forget

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Sep 9 at 2021 1:36 AM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 01:36:51 -0400

I was long past retirement age, but I was on standby to go down to NYC if needed for Fire/EMS.

Response by PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. made Sep 9 at 2021 2:27 AM

PFC Andrew "Tommy" M. — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 02:27:02 -0400

I had been separated for ten years at that point, so No

Response by CWO3 Dennis M. made Sep 9 at 2021 6:03 AM

CWO3 Dennis M. — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 06:03:56 -0400

I was already retired from 23 years of Naval service when the attack occurred. But, I was ready, able and prepared to return if the Navy wanted me. As it turned out, they did not want this old Vietnam War dog.

Response by PFC Joseph Cuschieri made Sep 9 at 2021 6:35 AM

PFC Joseph Cuschieri — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 06:35:12 -0400

Yes I was inspired to rejoin the military after 9 year following my first service during the first golf War. However, I was denied re entry because of army politics and a general distain for my father and his service by those blocking my re entry. My father was an honorable man who served 35 years and made the rank of Col. His position was as an IG out of East Point, GA. I'm guessing his integrity pissed off a bunch of people because they took it out on me. I've been denied VA and educational benefits as a result and barred from serving again. Nevertheless, I support my brothers and sisters in arms who support and defend the Constitution and our citizens. God bless America and God bless America's men and women in service.

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Sep 9 at 2021 7:29 AM

CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 07:29:15 -0400

I joined on active duty in the Army in 1990, at the height of the first Gulf War. I rose to every occasion as an enlisted soldier getting promoted from PFC to acting PSNCO in the DivArty within three years of my enlistment that the DivArty Commander, DivArty S-1 and the CSM, together, recommended me to be commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army. This was recognition enough for me. The three-star letter of commendation and the impact awards added to the testament that my performance was stellar and this was my measurement.

Ahead of 9/11/2001, when Defense Intelligence spread the word that terrorists were learning to fly crop dusters in the heart of our Country at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), an Army Major, under Lease from USMA, a Caucasian skinhead, threatened my successful Army career, by warning me, "You, Captain, do not belong in my Army. You have only two choices: (1) resign your commission in my Army in lieu of my wrath or; (2) face my wrath till your elimination from my Army". At this point, I had accumulated almost 7000 retirement points and served almost 10 years in active federal service. The cause for this threat was totally alien to me and I wanted to comprehend the root cause of such a threat; this experience was a first for me and I didn't know how to handle it.

The Major, realizing my innocence, further suggested, "I will make it simple for you Captain. You can sign these three DA forms 4187 and I can assure you a makeshift position till your discharge from my Army". This reminded me of a young Battalion Commander who wanted to place me in a non-essential, non-operational position till my discharge, because he believed that I would never get promoted as a non-USMA officer. This happened in 1997 and the same repeated in 2001, after the Major met with that biased former Battalion Commander of mine. Was this a USMA treatment I was receiving or was it racial bias. The IG of a sister concern, inquiring into my case a year later concluded that the treatment I experienced and continued to experience under that leadership was 'Personal Hatred'. The same was shared with the SAIG (DAIG) at the time, but this Army IG took no action to protect me, a grieving Army officer, or to protect the law under which I was due protection as a Military Whistleblower. Instead, the DAIG leaked the Military Whistleblower Investigation Case File to those involved in this conspiracy against me and allowed me to be prosecuted by the Command against which I blew the whistle. Take about a lawless institution, The U.S. Army; where were yhe auditors when needed and; what at oversight? Nonexistent, to be honest. Perhaps, due to racial or religious biases? Seems very much like it. However, I am of Indian origin and I was a serving Citizen of the United States of America at that time for short of 15 years of federal active service and over 7600 retirement points. I was numb.

I was not even allowed to return to my Federal Civil Service career opportunity, which I never would have left had I known my Constitutional Rights would be violated without consequences. I was furious with myself for not realizing my future on active duty again. Is the Indian race that bad or are religions of India considered terrorism in the U.S. that laws, Directives, Instructions and Regulations don't apply to us during natural disasters? We should be given a heads up on such internal biases, so we can prepare and prevent such occurrences. We want to improve and achieve Excellence. Leaders who are prejudice from the outset are limited in their abilities to train and maintain the force; the force is limited to orders that violate their own fabric to satisfy the outsider, which was the nomenclature of that biased skinhead Major on loan from the USMA and the LTC, a USMA graduate, serving now as the GCC Chief. The common verse of the U.S. Army comes to me, "You screw up and you move up too". This is corny, yet very true.

During prosecution, all charges brought against me were found to be false and creatively crafted by that biased skinhead Army Major hailing from the USMA. However, the Board constituted by those charged for wrongdoing in my Military Whistleblower Complaint still found me guilty without an iota of evidence to backup their find. Whose audited this process? No one and not even the Government itself.

In 2005, almost 15 years of federal active service later, the Commander of the U.S. Army Reserve Human Resources Command pronounced me guilty and issued a Certificate of Service through email, which is a first for me again. It was simply unbelievable.

When the unit in which I served as a Federal Civilian earlier requested the U.S. Army Human Resources Command to assign me a position number and line number, but the HRC Commander refused making up a tale that was so far away from the truth that it was criminal by her own Oath of Office and Service. Who was she accountable to and what was his/her directions in this case?

In 2014, under a FOIA/PA request submitted in 2009, a medical consult form reveals that the Biased Skinhead Army Major visited the KACC on Meade, where I was being treated by doctors of the Red Team for a stomach infection as well. He met my doctors at the KACC who verified my diagnosis and doctors' recommendations. He visited the Behavioral Health Clinic at the KACC where he claimed that I was mentally challenged for submitting an IG Complaint against my COC (chain of command) in Feb 02. Where did he learn about my Complaint; who leaked my Whistleblower case file? The SAIG, the investigation officer or some other Army agency. The Major reported me AWOL thereafter and then, rescinded the DA 4187 two day later. The biased skinhead Major reported me AWOL twice in a month, rescinding both DA forms two days after submission. Did he actually rescind his reports or was this his underhanded tricks against the Army, the DoD and our Country? Under the PA, the Command FOIA Officer revealed that in the notes of my file in the Command Repository it clearly states that my Military Whistleblower Case File was 'arbitrarily closed' by the Command IG of the Command against which I had blown the whistle to the DAIG (SAIG) in Feb 02. Is there a Conflict of Interest here or not? Reference is DoD Directive 7050.6 and Title 10 of U.S.C, Section 1034.

The reference for the illegal Mental Health Evaluation under Emergency Conditions (EMHE) ordered against me in Oct 02 was in reprisal against me for blowing the whistle against my Command in Feb 02. The Army IG failed to protect me, a Military Whistleblower, from prohibited activities after I submitted my Complaint. In fact, the Army IG washed its hands off my case by leaking my case file and allowing it to be arbitrarily closed without my knowledge or consent. This is why I spent eight days like a convict, when I did nothing wrong at all. I followed the rules, but I didn't know that the Army IG and the Defense IG were in league to murder my career and to murder our Constitution.

There was another piece. The biased Army officer flagged me after the Command G-1 claimed that I had been transferred for rehab to a sister concern under the same major Army outfit. The flag had no cause or reason scripted on the DA Form 4187 or attached. Was this flag acceptable by Army standards; who was oversight for these actions? CONUSA was responsible for approval of transfer orders, but these orders had no approval from CONUSA at all. What was going on in this Command and was anyone concerned? I was hushed up by ending my military life, but how many others haven't received fair justice yet? Many is my guess.

After my untimely and illegal discharge from service to my adopted Country, I went into a severe depression. I was stressed; I couldn't comprehend how my Command violated laws, rules and regulations without any consequences; I still wonder whether U.S. laws are so flimsy that the military leadership, who have sworn to uphold the laws of our land claim ignorance of the law after committing the offense without legal action against them. I am sure that such violations are chargeable under some Articles of the UCMJ. Why did I suffer alone? Perhaps, my race and religion are disrespected in the U.S., I am not sure.

Although I earned my MBA, I couldn't find any work in my own Country; the Army had flagged me on the narrative portion of my Credit Report that is used in Background Investigations and the Army refused to remove that unsupported flag from my civilian records for over a decade. By then, the harm to my career in the U.S. was done. I had to settle for employment abroad for peanuts compared to my military pay. Even with treatment, I am unable to forget or life with the fact that my military and civilian careers were murdered by a conspiracy spearheaded by a biased skinhead Major who held a personal grudge against me from the outset and in which conspiracy the Army IG, Conmand IG and others were involved. I am barely surviving, even though I have risen high on the corporate ladder in India because the pay is pittens.

I suffer from acute PTSD and a side effect of that is that I contracted acute Psoriasis or a skin cancer that superficially gets treated, but then comes back with a vengeance to torment me more. The doctor provided a prescription stating this skin infection is skin cancer which appeared to be about 11 years old in 2014. The VA denied my submission and falsely claimed that this skin cancer/acute psoriasis diagosed by a VA certified medical super specialist in dermatology was fungus on my right leg and not what the doctor wrote in her report. Why was the doctor's report ignored by the VA? Race or religion of the Doctor, it seems. The VA further lied claiming the fungus on my right leg was hereditary. How can VA be so wrong? The fungus was found on my shin in 1990, after I joined the Army. It was treated with Tetmosol soap initially and then, at Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii, where I spent eight years of my military life and from where the VA failed to retrieve my records, the doctors treated the fungus till it was completely cured and it never showed its ugly face thereafter. Given these facts, how can the diagnosis of skin cancer be hereditary? This needs to be treated urgently and correctly entered at the VA for accurate calculations of benefits. My disabilities are all service related and each stems from PTSD or; I also served in Kunia Field Station, tucked under the Delmonte pineapple fields on Oahu, Hawaii. Perhaps, my mental state, described by that biased skinhead Major, was actually caused due to asbestos and the pathogenic effects of carcinogens founds in Kunia Tunnel after it got exposed. Perhaps the effects established and then, affected me when I was stressed and unaware of its attack from within me. It can be a possibility.

I need assistance; can VA assist me please? This is my humble request.

Also, I stopped receiving my Economic Impact Checks after the second one. How do I restart this very useful Compensation for me; can the VA assist this overseas based Veteran?

Response by Maj Gary Elliott made Sep 9 at 2021 7:34 AM

Maj Gary Elliott — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 07:34:15 -0400

I was in the Air Force stationed at McGuire AFB, NJ. At the time, I was deployed to Egypt in charge of a 14-person team providing comms for the port operations group that was unloading equipment for Exercise BRIGHT STAR 01 in Alexandria. We heard about the towers and Pentagon being hit when we'd stopped at a highway rest stop half way between Cairo and Alexandria. At that point, the exercise was halted, while DoD decided what to do next. After five days, our port operations continued so the exercise could begin. When the exercise was done and the port operations group had loaded the last ship to go home, we returned to a base that was over 50% deployed. From that time forward until I retired in 2010, I was deployed roughly a third of my remaining 9 years. Fun stuff!

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Sep 9 at 2021 8:19 AM

SSG Edward Tilton — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 08:19:11 -0400

I retured in 1987. I was living in Phoenix when the attack took place

Response by MSgt Will Ackerman made Sep 9 at 2021 9:50 AM

MSgt Will Ackerman — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 09:50:09 -0400

Good morning to all. Today's the day our VA team will respond to your questions "live" from 3 to 4 pm. ET. We encourage you to post your questions about VA benefits, services and health care. We'd love to also read your stories about whether the 9/11 attacks inspired you to join the military and why. Please avoid posting HIPAA-related information. We'll see you this afternoon.

Response by CPO Shawn Graham made Sep 9 at 2021 10:20 AM

CPO Shawn Graham — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 10:20:46 -0400

I was sitting in Newport News Shipyard about to check into my second ship. We thought the first plane crash was an accident. When the second plane hit, we knew we were under attack. A scary time for our Country.

Response by Sgt Jamie Beaulieu made Sep 9 at 2021 10:35 AM

Sgt Jamie Beaulieu — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 10:35:36 -0400

I knew what I was seeing the moment I saw the first tower of the World Trade Center impacted. This was the plan CIA and FBI officers assigned to the hunt for the masterminds behind the 1993 World Trade Center bombing uncovered while investigating the mid air bombing of a Japanese airliner enroute to Okinawa that was meant to terrorise the military and civilian personnel we have stationed there but failed in 1995. I knew this plan well. I'd discussed it with the secret service agents I came in contact with while preparing MCAS Beaufort to receive President Clinton as he made his way to Hilton Head Island for vacation on multiple occasions. I'd discussed it with the officers who signed off on my application to attend the Navy/Marine Corps commissioning program known as BOOST (Broadened Opportunity for Officer Selection and Training) then housed at the same facility that houses the Naval War College. There I heard Admirals, Commanders, Generals, and Colonels explain how the Department of Defense planned to respond to it and other actions extremists determined to draw us to war in the Middle East were taking.

Having seen terrorist attacks impact embassies, fretted Marines gone missing had fallen into the hands of terrorists who promised to behead them for sport and propaganda, and recently returned home from a flight that had me wondering if I wasn't aboard an aircraft they might hijack, I just found myself hoping the incoming administration was going to let the Department of Defense lead the response to this attack. It wouldn't take long for me to realize it would not. What I've seen since then conforms so well to the thinking I was exposed to on the Mujahideen and how they might weather another invasion I can do naught but conclude that Washington was more moved by politics than it was by the advice it received from defense and intelligence professionals. Granted, their thinking was eventually adopted by those ordered to invade rather than continue fighting the urge to respond as the enemy intended. Absent that I don't believe we'd have invested in a 20 year campaign of this nature. In fact, I know we wouldn't have because most of the defense and intelligence professionals I was exposed to envisioned a Cold War like effort that focused on security and the occassional military strike that aimed to deter or hinder the efforts of that multinational terrorist organization that was determined to provoke us.

Response by 2LT Bruce Mendelsohn made Sep 9 at 2021 11:22 AM

2LT Bruce Mendelsohn — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 11:22:30 -0400

My TAC Officer, MAJ Kip Taylor, was killed at the Pentagon. He was posthumously promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. http://arlingtoncemetery.net/kptaylor.htm May all the victims of this terrorist attack rest in peace, and may we be always vigilant.

kptaylor.htm

Response by SSG Allen Pierce made Sep 9 at 2021 11:34 AM

SSG Allen Pierce — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 11:34:14 -0400

I had just recently retired. Was attending a Leadership Class at UT Arlington that day. Was watching NBC who were interviewing Jack Welch who was promoting a new book. As that interview ended, news broke that an AC had hit one of the World Trade Towers. Watched all the events live from that point forward. Class was cancelled. I didn't go back in the military, but in 2004, I left my Lockheed Martin job to take an Apache AH-64D Field Service Rep job with the Boeing Company. I deployed to Iraq with 2-101 Aviation Regiment out of Ft Campbell, KY in 2005 in support of OIF III. Now back at Lockheed Martin supporting both the F-35 and F-22 Fighter Programs. Have know nothing but service to my country in uniform and as a DoD Contractor. Not sure I'd work anywhere else if the job didn't entail supporting and working with the War Fighters.

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Sep 9 at 2021 11:58 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 11:58:28 -0400

I was stationed at United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) at the time. Previously USCENTCOM was a sleepy 4-star command where senior officers and enlisted went to finish out their military career and retire. However, on 9/11/01, that paradigm changed significantly.
I was a command briefer for GEN Tommy Franks, previously referred to as CINCCENT, and overnight we transitioned to a focused, warfighting command. I was emboldened in my position to brief the latest intelligence to the leaders across the USCENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR) on a daily basis, and was extremely proud to be serving in the U.S. military at the time.
Shortly after we began operations in Afghanistan, then Iraq, I deployed to the Middle East and served in USCENTCOM's forward deployed headquarters.

Response by SFC James Baber made Sep 9 at 2021 12:41 PM

SFC James Baber — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 12:41:57 -0400

I was already an 18 year active duty SM when 9/11 happened, but I stayed well past my 20 as I didn't want to send my Soldiers into various combat zones with no knowledge or experienced leaders to guide them, teach them and protect them from what might occur. Even though I was serving in what many call the peace time military I already had numerous combat related deployments within my then current career (Panama, DS/DS, Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo), so I was one of the most experienced members in my unit, BN, BDE. I wanted to go/volunteer to go even before I was picked for some assignments as I knew there was going to be a need for personnel in the beginning before the actual war even was declared. I deployed initially in mid-Dec '01 to provide security for inbound units established the oh so beloved bases in the Stan we all know. I actually was mentally and physically better off being in combat zones than back in garrison, believe or not, I was diagnosed with HBP in '02, but with each rotation to Iraq (I, III, V) I was actually taken off my medication for HBP each time as my BP was well under for the meds and didn't need it (got tested every 2 weeks to check), but the funny thing was got put back on within 4-6 weeks each return as the stress in garrison was more than a combat zone, go figure, LOL.

I enjoyed my time in, loved my job and stayed for my country and my troops, and if I could, would do it all again in a heartbeat. Currently too old and too broken up physically though, but just give me a rifle with a scope and I can still use my training to help as needed/necessary.

Response by SPC Wayne DeHart made Sep 9 at 2021 12:57 PM

SPC Wayne DeHart — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 12:57:20 -0400

I'm a Vietnam vet who was at home watching the events unfold that day, glued to the television set, a thousand things going through my mind. On July 4th of this year, I wrote thiis poem, in anticipation of the 20th anniversary remembrance, dedicated to all of the first responders, as well as those who "signed on" to the military as a result of that tragic day.

Safe in Our Homes . . .
- Wayne Michael DeHart

One
they were,
unbroken.
Dark-dazed, dismayed,
enshrouded in haze.
These lionhearts emerged
as shadows from the rubble.
Fueled by fate, faith and fury,
they breathed in fumes from the maelstrom, then
pulled from the ashes - America’s soul.

Safe
in our
homes we watched
our countrymen
unite on the ground.
Citizens of the world
paused their own woes, felt our pain,
as borderless empathy reigned.
The ache and the hurt never lessened -
ever – but the path to healing began.

Rise
from the
deep anguish
to the challenge
was the call we heard.
Unwavering, nameless,
faceless first responders mourned
their silenced brothers and sisters
present on the roll call of lives lost.
We stood with them as they had stood for us.

Some
signed on,
took up arms,
in those first years
after the planes came.
Wars ensued, burdens were borne.
Though worry weighed heavily
on loved ones back home, undaunted
men and women nobly gave back to
their country, their allies, as one, as all.

Time
has taught
us – you, me -
to remember
the day the earth moved
as more than a datemark
for flags that gallantly streamed.
Those who served then, those who serve now,
and those who served in-between hold fast
and firm, fervent among compatriots.

We
honor
The Fallen.
Lament their loss,
each in our own way.
The deceased from that day,
and the uniformed thousands
who followed, await our salute.
Though the dust now be settled, the light
back in our days, still, the memory stays.

On that day of chaos that blocked the sun,
the peerless, the fearless, second to none,
raised themselves up, said “there’s work to be done.”
September eleventh, two-thousand one.
#

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Sep 9 at 2021 1:57 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:57:26 -0400

I saw the towers fall on TV from my dorm room in college. I walked out into the open media room and saw a crippled Syrian student in a wheelchair comment that "the US had this coming to them." I learned later that when he was a young boy he was shot in the spine and paralyzed from the waist down by an Israeli Soldier. After he alienated himself from many of the other students in the dorm, I decided I wanted to learn more about why he felt the way he did. In the 4-5 months of talking with this student (him knowing that I was already enrolled and on contract in AFROTC) I learned a lot about his opinions and life growing up in Syria. My initial anger towards him turned into several important learning lessons (for both of us) that still stick with me today.

Response by James Ruhlman made Sep 9 at 2021 3:01 PM

James Ruhlman — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:01:25 -0400

Our team is here today to answer questions you've posted over the past few weeks about VA benefits, services and healthcare. Please feel free to post any questions you may have.

Response by Jessica Schiefer made Sep 9 at 2021 3:06 PM

Jessica Schiefer — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:06:04 -0400

Hello, my name is Jessica from VA’s Vet Centers and I am here to answer your question on how we could be of assistance to you. If you are interested in other Vet Center services, you can reach us 24/7 by calling the Vet Center Call Center at [login to see] or find us online at http://www.vetcenter.va.gov.

www.vetcenter.va.gov.

Response by PO2 Betti Fordyce made Sep 9 at 2021 3:08 PM

PO2 Betti Fordyce — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:08:34 -0400

I had already Honorably served at The time but was Taking care of our proud Veterans at the VA Hospital. I was on duty that day and a Very upset Veteran called me into his room to ask if this was really happening. I was stunned. Never did I think there would be an attack on our soil in my lifetime. I immediately reached out to my Mother who was in New York for training that week. She happened to be on the ferry at the time and watched the planes fly into the building. This is a day I will never forget. My patients were either stunned or in disbelief.

Response by Jennifer Perez made Sep 9 at 2021 3:09 PM

Jennifer Perez — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:09:24 -0400

Good Afternoon! Thank you for taking the time to share your stories/comments over the last two weeks. We're pleased to be here to answer as many questions about Post-9/11 VA benefits, services and healthcare as we can today. If we don't have time to answer them all today, we will follow-up to be sure your questions are answered.

Response by CH (MAJ) Chad Maxey made Sep 9 at 2021 3:17 PM

CH (MAJ) Chad Maxey — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:17:23 -0400

Hi, my name is Chad from VA Chaplain Services. I enjoyed reading your stories and reactions to the 9/11 attacks. It is hard to believe that it was 20 years ago. Thank you for your service and support. I am here to answer your questions on VA Chaplain Service.

Response by Andi Martinez made Sep 9 at 2021 3:41 PM

Andi Martinez — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:41:48 -0400

Thank you so much for joining us today. Here are some helpful resources:
VA is here for you. 1-800-MyVA41 [login to see] ) is always the right number when you don't know who to call at VA and have questions.

VA WELCOME KIT! https://www.va.gov/welcome-kit/
Subscribe to VA News! https://www.va.gov/vetresources/
Veterans Crisis Line [login to see] (Press 1) or send text to 838255
VA.gov makes it easy for Veterans to schedule an appointment, update contact info, file a claim, apply for healthcare and much more!
VA COVID-19 Response: https://www.publichealth.va.gov/n-coronavirus/
White House VA Hotline [login to see] (24/7 access to a live agent if you have a challenge with receiving VA care)

Print out your VA Welcome Kit | Veterans Affairs

Whether you’re just getting out of the service or you’ve been a civilian for years now, the VA Welcome Kit can help guide you to the benefits and services you’ve earned.

Response by MSgt Will Ackerman made Sep 9 at 2021 4:02 PM

MSgt Will Ackerman — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 16:02:12 -0400

Thank you all for contributing to this dialogue. We've run out of time, but will attempt to answer your questions in the coming days or refer you to a local representative who can serve you more effectively. You are important. You are the reason we are here. If you would like speak to someone about specific VA benefits or services, please call 1-800-MyVA41 [login to see] ) on your phone.

Response by Maj Robert Larkowski made Sep 9 at 2021 5:12 PM

Maj Robert Larkowski — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 17:12:45 -0400

I had already been accepted to OTS before it all went down.
I went.
My class was the small is recent history but I say how could you NOT join up!

Response by PO3 Jennifer Murphy made Sep 9 at 2021 6:45 PM

PO3 Jennifer Murphy — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 18:45:24 -0400

A college student in the study lounge at Valencia Community College, I watched in horror as United Airlines Flight 175 flew directly into the World Trade Center's South Tower. It was unbelievable. Absolutely breathtaking and I remember feeling so helpless as I watched the towers crumble to dust over the streets of New York. It was the first time in my life that I felt nothing would ever be the same. I knew that I was supposed to be doing something greater than what I was, but at the time I didn't know what that was exactly. It took Pat Tillman enlisting in the U.S. Army for me to realize that I had the same courage and absolute love for my country. In honor of the USS Cole, I joined the U.S. Navy, enlisting with the hopes of becoming a Mustang. Six months into my enlistment, I was critically wounded overseas while on the LHD-2 I was assigned to was in the Persian Gulf. I was medevaced from the USS ESSEX to a triage in Kuwait; then flown to Landstuhl Medical Center in Germany, followed by Rammstein Medical Center. When considered "stable", I was loaded on a C-130 and flown to Bethesda Medical Center. All while in a medically induced coma. It wasn't until I got to James A. Haley VAMC in Tampa, Florida, that I fully regained consciousness and I relearned how to walk, talk, eat... do all of the basic, average things that a person just does, without realizing the significance of having that simple ability. The simple ability of holding a cup, or putting a shoe on. Brushing your teeth and walking out the door to tackle the day. The every day basic little simple things I took for granted. I was inpatient at James A. Haley for 6 months and then I went back to active duty for 3 more years before I was medically retired... YN3 (RET) HOOYAH!
This all brought me to where I have been since 2011, as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. After 9/11, I learned that I am meant to be doing so much more, so much more for the greater good of others. We're only given this one life, this beautiful opportunity to make it better for yourself and for the people around you.

Response by SSG Byron Hewett made Sep 9 at 2021 10:07 PM

SSG Byron Hewett — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 22:07:19 -0400

I joined before 911, I don’t believe that it would have influenced my decision either way because came from a military family I would have have joined no matter what happened mainly because it was always the right decision and the most noble and honorable thing someone can do.

Response by MSgt Robert Kagel made Sep 9 at 2021 10:56 PM

MSgt Robert Kagel — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 22:56:33 -0400

I was stationed at Elmendorf AFB in Alaska. I lived about 45 miles away from the base, and I was getting ready for work. My father called me at 0530 and told me to turn on the TV, the first plane had just hit one of the buildings. We were discussing what might have happened when all of the sudden the other plane hit the second tower; All I said was "I have to go, talk to you later Dad!"
I arrived at work in less than 20 minutes and after a half-hour of sorting things out, they sent all of us old dogs out to the Flightline to crack the whip. It was an amazing day that lead to many deployments. The speed of our response, and the overall feeling of protection for the common good. We did good things, but it couldn't go on forever. (It really stunk, how the pullout was accomplished. It went against everything we were trained to do)

Response by CPL Rob Amsden made Sep 11 at 2021 4:05 AM

CPL Rob Amsden — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 04:05:34 -0400

I was told that only combat veterans are eligible for VA health care benefits, is that true?

Response by SPC Matt Ovaska made Sep 11 at 2021 11:33 AM

SPC Matt Ovaska — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 11:33:41 -0400

I undertand that our government paid for the terrorist's pilot training with our tax dollars, So sad.

Response by PO3 Luis Chile made Sep 11 at 2021 12:09 PM

PO3 Luis Chile — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 12:09:48 -0400

I was at home and was awaken by the shocking news on TV then The Cries of my Mom's reaction of what had Occurred the Twin Towers were being Attacked . Immediately I got dressed and took off with my Buddy to the Rooftop facing the East river a clear view of the North Tower In a blaze of smoke then as time went slow watching the second tower get hit.At that Moment I knew it wasn't an Accident but an Attack .I rushed down to see if my Niece had gone to work ? At that time she had gotten a job down there.lateron she was found and okay .So then After I went to my local firehouse and bought my EMS bag.Amd as the manpower that day of firefighters were going down there Fire trucks and pumpers were at the station Outside standing watch and filling in for the brothers who went down to world trade.The following Morning A Senior fireman was going down to the rubble at ground zero and I had asked him if I could go down with him .The FDR was closed but open only for firemen and police and so we went in his car 1970 white Chevy Nova .I will never forget the next three days were a grueling and shocking experience.My experience witnessing that Totally made me Go and Elist that same week .Me and many fellow Newyorkers joined as the result .Security was high and at a freeze on everything so I escorted my friend in a rental back to Tampa Florida at that time because his flights were cancelled that week as we went driving down I95 south you Could see All of the Fire companies 3 days later still driving up to NewYork.That Following month I received a call by the Navy Recruiter to report to Swear in And I swore in and Enlisted October 11,2001.I will Never Forget and Never regret it since .they gave me a dream sheet in boot camp.3 places I'd like to go to My first was Osama Bin laden my second was Hawaii and my 3rd was around the world.Turned out I went to Hawaii 3 times circle the globe on my ship and Osama bin laden was executed by seal team 6 and bought to my ship for a sea burial to the point of no return !!! Mission Completed I wasn't there when it happened but knowing why I joined and where his last remains stayed gave me and fellow Newyorkers who served there at a time of reverance meaning .We got the bad guy and peace but most of all closure .

Response by SGT Charles Bartell made Sep 12 at 2021 7:34 PM

SGT Charles Bartell — Sun, 12 Sep 2021 19:34:35 -0400

I had been active duty ,and a reservist. Then out all together. Then people where stupid enough to put slick willy in the white house. The man's so called foreign policy. Was a joke.
He policy of ass kiss Terrorist Nation's.
His lack of action about the first Trade Center Bombing.
Even Knowing who had done it.
His total lack off Geo Political knowledge.
I just new the U.S. was going to be attacked because of weakness in the white house and the Government, And the fact that training standards made our military weak.
So I felt because of my past Militarily experience I enlisted.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2021 4:00 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 16:00:34 -0400

Literally signed my contract a few weeks later.. here I am retiring

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2021 11:27 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 23:27:33 -0400

I joined before 9/11 and reenlisted after. I had planned on doing 20 years no matter what was in my way.

Response by SPC Shawn Durnen made Sep 23 at 2021 12:29 AM

SPC Shawn Durnen — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 00:29:18 -0400

As a young man of 14 at the time, who grew up in a military family and watching the devastation and the impact it had on everyone, I knew I had to serve! That it was my responsibility to step up and defend my country.

Response by SSG Mannix Brooks made Sep 24 at 2021 8:55 PM

SSG Mannix Brooks — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 20:55:02 -0400

I joined in 86 during the height of the not-so Cold War because trust me it was pretty hot. I had many influences to join. I lived in Enterprise, Al (now Raleigh, NC) which is right outside Fort Rucker so it was common to see Blackhawk training flights over my area. My high school had an excellent Army JROTC program and for a short time, I got to work on the post supporting the gym. I made up my mind to join back in junior high school but never made my mind up to which branch. Just say the Army won out (more aggressive). I entered the delayed entry program in the 11th grade and after graduating and two months working a summer job as part of the old CETA program I entered service on 23 July 1986 and of to Fort Kinox. I never looked back until April 30, 2007, when I retired. I would take back the life I got to live for anything in the world because once in you are never the same as you once were.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2021 11:23 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 23:23:22 -0400

I would have joined anyway. My family has been in the Army since the Revolution.

Response by CPO Kurt Baschab made Oct 31 at 2021 5:30 PM

CPO Kurt Baschab — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 17:30:03 -0400

I join the Army National Guard in March 1982,went to boot camp in FT Dix NJ, my MOS was O-5B RADIO TELPHONE OPERATOR ,IN FT GORDON GA, I went Active duty in the United States Coast Guard Aug 1984, BOOT Camp was in Camp May NJ, went to Yorktown VA, to became a 3rd Class Electricians Mate, I Retired Sept 01 2014, as a EMC .

on 9-11 I was STA in FORT LAUDERDALE FL as the EM1, I was working on a 41ft UTB Patrol Boat, I Just Keep Trouble Shooting Working on the CG 41ft UTB, KNOWING we would need the Patrol boat up and running for port security at the Station.

Response by SPC Chris Early made Jan 29 at 2022 10:16 AM

SPC Chris Early — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 10:16:14 -0500

I signed up at 17 years old with my parent consent back in 1997, i left home august 98. When i joined was because as a young man of color in this country i didn't have many choices. I believed that serving my country i would be continuing a fight that people of color have been fighting since our ancestors have been brought to this country, the right to be seen a an man and not a black man. I felt that i would take the call to help oir world be a better place. When 9/11 happened i just had left regular duty for the national guard so i could be deployed and use the skills that i was trained to do. I was deployed with the second group to protect the MDW ( military district of Washington) due to being the only and last male in my family to have the Early last name. Knowing that i could end up giving my life for this country for oir freedoms is a honor, but i have done so many funeral details watching soldiers my age being brought home in caskets, seeing the family pain as we fold and pass the flag to families who lost there son's, daughters shows you the sacrifice we would give to hold these freedoms we have. So for myself it wasn't 9/11 that inspired me it was those who stood before fighting for freedom's that they don't really get to enjoy because their skin didn't fit the profile of what people would call a " true american" , that is what inspired me.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2022 1:56 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 13:56:40 -0500

I actually joined the military in 1996. I was not a U.S. citizen, but I felt a patriotic duty to give back for being able to live in this nation.

Response by SGT Jim Wiseman made May 17 at 2022 11:07 AM

SGT Jim Wiseman — Tue, 17 May 2022 11:07:31 -0400

I was a late-life entry. 2008 when the economy had tanked, I was looking at another period of unemployment. I was living in RI, no family around, and I hadn't been spending time with friends. I was 36, about to turn 37 in a few months. I decided to let the Army take care of me. I also got to deal with the regret of not joining when I was younger. Great decision and I'd do it again. 11B!

Response by SFC William Linnell made Oct 14 at 2022 10:00 AM

SFC William Linnell — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:00:24 -0400

I can't say that the 911 attacks pushed me to join. I was already on active duty stationed at Hood. We were in the middle of tank gunnery when everything stopped. We were told anything by command. We found out when a few of us called home and were told. Hood was on complete lockdown, no one in and no one out. We stayed on our tanks on the range until we got the Green Light to continue shooting. I want to say it was on day 3 after the attacks that we were allowed to go home.
starting in Oct the units where assigned to different entry points around post and started base security. My company had Clear Creek entrance and we rotated in 3 shifts by Platoons. After everything going back to "normal" operations, we went to the field training heavily. 18 months worth. We knew were were going but not when. We kinda surmised that we would be landing our equipment in Turkey I believed but then they wouldn't allow it, so that let the cat out of the bag that my units mission to invade from the north got tossed, no surprising the enemy that way.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2024 10:35 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 Apr 2024 10:35:01 -0400

Joined the Army Reserves shortly after Desert Storm at 17. Always knew I would be a soldier but the Army is too dumb to do it full time. If things got really bad during a war, they would call and they did. So I have spent almost 3 decades in the ARNG. What fun!