GM FBF!!! I was NOT going to make a 9-11 post today but a former colleague made reminded me of the horrific day. (Its all good though) Please take a moment and be thankful as well as say a prayer. On that morning when I awaken in a hotel in San Antonio, TX with a number of USGS colleagues I was IMMEDIATELY glued to the television. Our meeting was the kickoff meeting for a national team focused on diversity and special emphasis activities for USGS. As the events continued to unfold, my panic level was beyond high as I thought about my family on the east coast but most important, my baby girl that I could not get home to. Phone lines were jammed (not working), all flights cancelled, no trains, buses, scooters, rental cars, etc. As much as we want to think we can face challenges, that day I didnt want a challenge, I wanted to get home. The USGS Leadership team started strategizing on how to keep us together while making sure all returned home safely. The decision was to charter a bus and make the trip across country for the east coast employees. During those two and a half days we dropped off and picked up Department of the Interior employees along the way. It was like a scene from the movies (a ride to freedom). The most amazing friendships were formed through that tragedy. No self preservation but a lot of team building and support. Upon arriving back to the DC metro area, the eery calm was unsettling. As we exited that chartered bus in total darkness (parking lot lights turned off for security) some of us reunited with our families while others prepared for the next leg(s) if their journey home. Yes I was thankful for returning home BUT I was especially thankful to my company leadership. This tragic day is always remembered for the lives lost but I also remember the lives that were saved and my colleagues. Continued prayers for peers and friends who suffered losses on this day.
Posted on: Thu, 11 Sep 2014 12:14:14 +0000
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