Tyndall Airmen remember

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Veronica U. Fullwood
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla --  Thirteen years ago, a tragic and horrifying event occurred bringing the nation closer together.

Every year on Sept. 11, Tyndall Airmen come together to remember and pay respect for those who were lost.

This year Tyndall Airmen came together to participate in a remembrance run.

"It was 13 years ago today that the nation suffered a tragic attack," said Col. Derek C. France, 325th Fighter Wing commander.

After giving a speech, the commander led a formation of several hundred Airmen in the run.

"On that day, we as America came together," said Senior Airman Christopher B. Davis, 325th Security Forces Squadron response force leader. "We all bled red."

There were more than 3,000 Americans whose lives would end that morning.

"I think we all remember the feeling of shock," said Col. Scott D. Crogg, 44th Fighter Group commander.

Crogg, 111th Fighter Squadron director of operations at the time, was one of the escort fighter pilots for Air Force One and remembers flying all day that day.

"We didn't have our overnight kits," said Crogg. "We didn't have maps for half the nation."

Through all the terror, it was a clear day and Crogg had a part in delivering President George W. Bush to address the nation.

"By the time we got to the hotel, there was President Bush delivering his address from Camp David," said Crogg. "It was rewarding."

As an airline pilot, Crogg looks right at the World Trade Center site as he flies by New York City.

"It's still a very clear memory," said Crogg. "It feels more surreal than real."

The memories of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks will continue to live in the hearts of Airmen.
"This day was the day that inspired me to join and to make a difference," said Davis. "We need to always keep our heads on a swivel and communicate."

Reflecting and remembering is a means to not forget.

"We've got some good things in this life, and we need to make sure that we are enjoying what we have, make the most of every minute of every day to honor those who can't," said France.