Memories of Being in NYC on 9/11/2001 Twenty-Five Years Later
Ten years ago on the fifteenth anniversary of 9/11 I posted my thoughts about being in New York City on that tragic day. Since today is the twenty-fifth anniversary I thought it might be a good idea to repost those thoughts. It doesn't matter how much time passes for me, the images of that day remain vivid. I suspect they will for the rest of my life.
9/11 Twenty Five Years Later (Written in 2016)
I almost did not write this post as I had second thoughts but I felt I wanted to share my memories of a day I will never forget. On 9/11/2001 I was right in the thick of it in a production studio in Manhattan. It was a beautiful cloudless Tuesday which on occasion I can recall as vividly as if it were yesterday.
As I mentioned I was at a TV studio preparing to do The People's Court television show before all hell broke loose. In the control room we watched the mayhem unfold. In fact, I vividly recall watching Channel 4 News in a live report from the World Trade Center area when, during the actual live report, the second plane hit the second tower. The shocked reporter just took off running and so did the cameraman.
Cell phones did not work. Neither did landlines for that matter. The only way I got word to my wife about my situation was sending an email via AOL. Does anyone have AOL anymore? I had no idea if the email would even reach her.
In the studio we simply did not know if we should stay or go. What was a safer choice? After the plane hit the Pentagon the director, Kit Carson, turned to me and waved goodbye adding, "Good luck, get home safe."
Home for me at the time was Bucks County, PA, 90 minutes to the south via Penn Station. So I headed in that direction. The studio was at 37th Street and 5th Ave. and I could look south and see the brown smoke rising above the towers. As I walked toward Penn Station I passed by several churches with hastily posted signs on which someone scrawled with a sharpie, "Come in and Pray." At one church I saw people actually kneeling on the sidewalk praying.
As I got to Penn Station it was bedlam but I saw a line of people going down an escalator onto a train. I joined them. I didn't care where the train was going - just out of Manhattan. As I got on and actually got a seat before the aisles filled up, then there came an announcement, "Attention all passengers by order of the NYPD, Penn Station is now closed. All must exit to street level and exit the building."
A collective groan was heard on the train as we all made our way out. My next thought was - water. There must be a boat I could jump on. So I headed up Eighth Ave. then onto 10th. Coming toward me down the avenue were thousands of people headed to, now closed, Penn Station. As I made my way up 10th my next thought was cash. I was going to take as much cash out of an ATM as I could before they too were shut down. I dashed in a deli and took out as much as I could and then continued north.
Once I got to 12th Ave. I saw a line of about 500 people waiting to get on board a Circle Line boat. I jumped right in behind them. We all boarded. The stuffed to the gills ship slowly pulled away from the dock. At that moment there was almost an audible sigh of relief. The boat was headed over to Weehawken, NJ and you could turn and look across the Hudson and see the Towers engulfed in brown smoke. You could also smell it. It smelled like an electrical fire. People on the boat were actually joking around trying to mask their fears. No one knew what the hell was going to happen next but at least we were off Manhattan.
When we docked at Weehawken I ran to a payphone to see if it had a dial tone. It did. I dialed my voicemail and heard a message from my now ex-wife that I will never forget. I will not detail it just to say it was filled with tears. I was able to call her back and told her I would try to grab a train from Hoboken.
I headed down there with thousands of others and the trains were going nowhere. At the station they had set up hundreds of gurneys with IV poles awaiting trains from the Trade Center. Trains that would never come. It was an eerie sight, which I'll never forget. It was so hauntingly similar to the 1987 Pink Floyd album cover, A Momentary Lapse of Reason. (look it up) But that was not the final enduring image I would remember from that day....the one that still gives me chills and I will never forget.
After leaving the train station I headed up to a Cuban bar / restaurant. I thought a beer was just what I needed at that point. There were actually only a few people in the place and at the bar. After a few moments a near hysterical woman who had to be eight months pregnant ran in with someone who had to be her mother. Through her tears I overheard her say to her mother, "his last words were he'd meet us here." I turned to the bartender and he looked back at me, we were both speechless. The pregnant woman then headed into the restroom as the Mom stood by the bar.
As I turned to continue watching Peter Jennings anchor the live coverage on the TV behind the bar a man bolted in who was covered head-to-toe with dust. It was the same brown dust, which had covered people who were seen on TV running from the towers.
As the man came in, the Mom started crying and they embraced. The bar fell silent. Then the pregnant woman emerged from the bathroom, saw her husband and ran towards him crying, overjoyed. No one in the place moved and many including myself teared up. It was a scene I will remember till I die.
Several hours later the trains began to run and I was able to get one to Montclair, NJ where my wife met me. I don't remember what we said to each other. We just held each other tight for a long moment before heading back to Pennsylvania.
Did the world change that day? Without a doubt. Did it change for the better? For a short while it did in the aftermath. We were united as one people and a nation that was wounded and hurting. Can we look back from today and say that we have grown or are safer as a nation? I am not certain we can. In many ways the world is much less certain and certainly much less innocent than before 9/11/2001.
But it remains up to us to make it the world in which we all want to live. And by live I mean live in peace. I am a spiritual person and I believe that the dark forces in this world have increased the level of terror and violence that they spread because they know their days are numbered.
More and more everyday people, especially those in the Middle East simply want to live their lives and raise their families in peace free from war. The time is coming soon when killing in the name of an almighty deity will not be tolerated, promoted or accepted by people of any faith on the planet. When that day comes...and hopefully I will see it in my lifetime, then finally there will be lasting peace on earth. Robert Child
Honored to be included in a new Newsweek magazine cover story on the Medal of Honor
Two Days at Shiloh: Grant's Account of the Battle Debuts Tonight
This film brings you onto the field beside Ulysses S. Grant as the Battle of Shiloh erupts around him. Drawn from Grant’s own account, the documentary follows his urgent rides along the shattered Union line, the thunder of Confederate assaults, and the decisions he made under relentless fire. Every moment is shaped by the chaos, pressure, and resolve Grant described in his own words.
If you want to experience Shiloh as Grant lived it — the smoke, the shock, the command decisions made in the saddle — join us for the debut.
See the premiere of, Two Days at Shiloh, tonight at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT.
DVD Available Now. PURCHASE HERE.
Discover the Untold Story of Robert E. Lee's Postwar Transformation
Key Lessons and Insights:
From General to Civilian Leader: Discover how Lee transitioned from a Confederate general to a civilian leader and college president, navigating the complexities of a nation in recovery.
Promoting Reconciliation: Learn about Lee's efforts to guide his former soldiers toward peace and national healing, emphasizing acceptance and rebuilding over bitterness and division.
Leadership at Washington College: Explore Lee's transformative presidency at Washington College (now Washington and Lee University), where he introduced innovative educational practices and a pioneering honor system.
Personal Struggles and Stoicism: Understand the personal hardships Lee faced, including family tragedies and declining health, and how he maintained his characteristic dignity and stoicism.
Legacy and Historical Memory: Reflect on the ongoing debates about Lee's legacy, his role in the Confederacy, and his impact on postwar America.
Why You Should Listen:
In-Depth Analysis: Gain a deeper understanding of a pivotal figure in American history and the broader challenges of postwar reconciliation.
Humanizing History: See the human side of Robert E. Lee, beyond the battlefield, as he navigates personal and national transformation.
Relevance Today: Connect historical lessons to contemporary discussions about leadership, reconciliation, and the role of historical figures in shaping national memory.
Join me on this journey through history as we uncover the complexities and nuances of Robert E. Lee's postwar life. It's a story of leadership, redemption, and the enduring quest for national healing. LISTEN HERE.
Thank you for being part of our growing community of military history enthusiasts. If you enjoyed this sneak peek, be sure to listen to the full episode and subscribe to "The Point of the Spear" for more captivating stories from history.
π Discover the True War-Time Origins of Santa Claus! π
π The Civil War Santa:
- Thomas Nast’s Influence: Learn how this brilliant illustrator for Harper’s Weekly transformed Santa from a stern European bishop into the jolly, generous figure we adore today.
- Patriotic Santa: Discover how Nast’s 1863 illustration of Santa in a stars-and-stripes jacket, visiting Union troops, became a powerful symbol of hope and unity during the Civil War.
π Christmas in Wartime:
- Soldiers’ Celebrations: Hear about the creative ways soldiers celebrated Christmas, from turning hardtack into makeshift cakes to crafting decorations from ammunition boxes.
- Home Front Traditions: Explore how families kept the holiday spirit alive despite wartime shortages, with homemade gifts and care packages for their loved ones on the front lines.
π The Evolution of Santa:
- From Stern to Jolly: Trace Santa’s transformation from a disciplinarian figure to the beloved, twinkling-eyed gift-giver, complete with a fur-trimmed suit and a North Pole workshop.
- A Symbol of Healing: Understand how Santa became a unifying figure post-war, helping a divided nation find common ground and joy.
π Fun Facts & Curiosities:
- Christmas as a Federal Holiday: Did you know Christmas was declared a federal holiday in 1870, just five years after the Civil War ended?
- Cultural Impact: See how Nast’s Santa influenced everything from greeting cards to modern-day advertisements, embedding himself deeply into American culture.
Join me, Robert Child, as we unravel the fascinating journey of Santa Claus from the battlefields of the Civil War to the heartwarming icon we cherish today. This episode is packed with historical insights, heartwarming stories, and a touch of holiday magic.
Tune in now and let’s celebrate the incredible history of Santa together!
Happy holidays, Robert Child
Subject: Dive into the Epic Army-Navy Rivalry! ππΊπΈ
Highlights from the Episode:
Dramatic Game Moment:
- Relive the heart-pounding final seconds of a legendary Army-Navy game where Navy clinched victory with a last-minute interception and a scramble for a fumble. It’s a moment that had everyone on the edge of their seats!
The Significance of the Army-Navy Game:
- I delve into why this game is more than just a football match. It’s a celebration of the dedication and dual roles of these student-athletes as future military leaders. The game has been a national spectacle for over 130 years, embodying the spirit of service and competition.
Historical Origins and Early Years:
- Discover how it all began back in 1890, with Navy’s decisive win over Army. Learn about the early controversies and the fierce passion that has fueled this rivalry from the start.
Notable Games and Cultural Impact:
- From the “Game of the Century” in 1945 to the emotionally charged 1963 game after JFK’s assassination, these matchups have left an indelible mark on American culture.
Controversies and Modern Challenges:
- Hear about the heated debates and challenges that have shaped the modern era of the Army-Navy game, including controversial officiating decisions and the impact of the College Football Playoff system.
Legendary Players and Military Heroes:
- Meet the iconic athletes who have graced this rivalry, like Heisman winners Doc Blanchard, Glenn Davis, and Roger Staubach. Their stories of excellence on the field and heroism in service are truly inspiring.
Traditions and Pageantry:
- Experience the unique traditions that make this game special, from the pre-game march-on to the poignant singing of alma maters. These moments highlight the camaraderie and respect between the academies.
Cultural and Patriotic Significance:
- Understand how the Army-Navy game serves as a powerful symbol of national unity and military service, drawing attention from presidents and top military leaders.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Game:
- Get excited for the upcoming 2025 game in Baltimore, where both teams will don special uniforms commemorating 250 years of service. It’s set to be another unforgettable chapter in this storied rivalry.
Why You Should Tune In:
- Engaging Narration: I bring you right into the action with vivid storytelling and expert insights.
- Rich History: Learn about the origins, key moments, and cultural impact of this iconic game.
- Inspiring Stories: Hear about the legendary players who have excelled both on the field and in military service.
I can’t wait for you to listen and share your thoughts. This episode is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Army-Navy game and the incredible individuals who make it so special.
Catch the episode here and join me in celebrating this unique blend of sportsmanship and service.
Stay curious and keep exploring!
Warm regards,
Robert Child
Host, The Point of the Spear
P.S. Don’t forget to check out our other episodes for more fascinating insights into military history and related topics. π§
