On the road early, I was heading to Somerset, Pa, it was a perfect September morning, sunny, clear sky, temperature just right. Like always, I was listening to the Howard Stern Show live on 105.9 The X. Then it happened, live on the air the show went to a whole new level. I called my wife, my dad, my best friend, and my crew and told them to get to a tv and tell me if this was really happening. I pulled off the interstate and found a Radio Shack. I parked, walked in and there was already a group of people crowded around a tv. I stood and watched but couldnt believe it, then at 9:59 a countless number of brave brothers lost there lives. I continued on toward Somerset, still listening to the greatest radio show on earth. Shortly after leaving, Howard reports a plane down in western Pa! IM IN WESTERN PA!!! Then out of no where, one after another, police start to pass me. Now its 10:28, it happens again, more of our Brothers were killed. As I arrived in Somerset, a police officer stopped me when he saw my fire dept license plate. He said, Are you a Firefighter or EMT? I said, Both. He then said,I dont know whats happening or what help we need but please go to the fire station here in town. I arrived at the station to hear rescue units get canceled, No survivors. At this time, I knew there was nothing I could do. I continued on to work just outside of Somerset but knew I wouldnt be able to concentrate. That night I sat in the local bar and with a group of locals, we watched the news coverage of the days events. As we left that night, we all realized our lives just changed forever. I still remember EVERYTHING about that day. I remember the weather, the radio show, every mile of my drive and making each phone call. After that day, everything around has changed, some for the good, some for the bad. Either way, it was because of what just happened on that sunny September morning. My thoughts and prayers have always gone out to everyone involved in that tragedy. My heart still hurts for the 343 Brothers I lost that day. Although I never knew any the the FDNY Firefighters that were killed that day, it doesnt matter, in this profession we are all Brothers and Sisters. I honestly feel bad for those of you that are not Firefighters or dont have friends or family that are. You will never know or understand this Brotherhood and what it means to belong to a group that No matter what, they will have your back. Rest in Peace Brothers, I shall carry on your tradition and continue to do the job you So proudly did until your lives were taken on 9/11. --If you havent heard the Howard Stern Show from that day, look it up and listen to it. I promise you, it will be something you will never forget.
Posted on: Thu, 11 Sep 2014 11:23:19 +0000