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Proud to be American; Remember: TRUST

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Some Notes on an Unforgettable Talk

FBI Special Agent Jacqueline S. Albrecht reported for duty at Ground Zero in New York City's World Trade Center two weeks after the buildings were attacked. She described vast destruction blocks from what we’ve seen on TV, boxes for aircraft parts, heat from uncontrolled fires burning at 1600 degrees, the evacuation signal indicating expected collapse of another big building, the need for everyone working in the area to check in and out at the field office “so that if there were an unexpected collapse they would know whose bodies they were seeking”, the need to forego her respirator to communicate personally with workers in “the pit”, and the dedication of the people working there.

 Some of the heart-warming images she presented included: people with flags lining the streets each day to greet the crews working at the site, a restaurant operated gratis for workers at “the pit” by a world class chef and other volunteers, celebrity volunteers, fresh flowers provided to brighten otherwise horrible conditions, a weary dog handler carrying his exhausted search dog from the area, and a volunteer washing everyone’s boots before they went into the food area every day.

 She related the experience of a fellow agent who happened to be there on 9/11. This agent instinctively rushed toward this presumed crime scene, but was diverted by a fireman who insisted, “Son, it’s not safe, run!” and then stayed and did not survive. This agent watched four people on an upper floor with flames lapping at their necks join hands and jump. He observed a pile of shoes of all types accumulated by wind currents. One fellow agent and one recent retiree were among those lost on 9/11.

 Agent Albrecht said that she saw America at its best and is proud to be an American. Her advice for us is:

Ø        Trust our government, military, and law enforcement people;

Ø        Respect our fellow man, without regard for color of skin or religious beliefs;

Ø        Unite America in patriotism and love;

Ø        Savor each moment and articulate our feelings for those we love; and

Ø        Trust in God, He is in control.

 She said to tell the membership “Thanks for the hospitality and its patriotism. Keep up the good work.” Several of us expressed thanks to her for her presentation and for her work, and we need to say it again!

Notes on Presentation at Kiwanis Club of Huntsville, 2/4/2002

--- CGStokes