An American Tragedy
By Gloria Saldivar
9/11/2014
Today marks the thirteenth year since the tragic event of 9/11. A remembrance event was held in the quad this morning, and a moment of silence was given for all the innocent people that had their lives snatched away in the blink of an eye.
Most people remember that spine chilling day as if it were yesterday, however there are some who remember it as if it were a dream. They can only recall on faint memories because they were too young to understand what was happening to our nation.
Aime Yarbrough, a student here at Taft College was in the Coast Guard the day tragedy struck our thought to be indestructible nation. She was stationed at Lake Tahoe when she heard the news. Aime thought it was some sort of joke at first, but she soon found out that it was all too real.
Nancy De Avila, a temporary eligibility technician for EOPS was eight years old when this happened. She remembers eating lunch with her family on what seemed to be a perfect day. She recalls her parents watching the news, but she did not comprehend the severity of the situation taking place.
Nicole Cook, an admissions technician here at Taft College was getting ready to go to school when her friend called her and told her to turn on the news. Nicole was speechless. She said, “ I felt an emotion that is inexpressible”.
Joell Chaidez, the testing coordinator here at Taft College was going through his morning routine when his wife called for his attention. They both watched the news as the devastating events unraveled before their eyes. Joell remembers listening to the radio while driving to work and seeing the same facial expression on all the drivers.
Most people described that day being unreal; almost as if they were watching a movie. This real life movie however did not come with a “stop” button. The events of 9/11 will forever haunt our memories