9-11 staff set aside fear to do their jobs

I work for Snopac 911 – the dispatch center for police and fire for Snohomish County. I was driving to work Sept 11, 2001 when I heard on the radio about the first plane hitting the World Trade Center. Immediately my thoughts and prayers went out to the dispatch personnel, fireman and police of New York City. I got to work just in time to see the second plane hit.

As I began my shift I couldn’t help but feel apprehensive about who was next. Would we be a target? Would my family be safe? My thoughts were jarred by the ringing of my phone – “911…what are you reporting?” I had said it a million times but today it took on new meaning. I knew this would be a day that callers would need extra reassurance. It was a somber day at our center. I know my co-workers felt as shaken inside as I. We wanted to be with our families but we were here. I felt an incredible surge of pride as I looked around the room. Each one putting aside their own fears, questions and concerns to assist the citizens of Snohomish county. One of my co-workers had a relative employed at the World Trade Center. He was given to opportunity to go home to await word, but he chose to stay. It is the kind of commitment I see everyday and I am proud.

Snohomish County

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