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Cityscape of New York City at night

Where were you on 9/11?

This story is part of the Gary Sinise Foundation's effort to preserve firsthand memories of September 11 so future generations can learn from those who experienced it.

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Mary Elise L.

was in Memphis, TN on 9/11/01.

I was 3 years old on 9/11. All I remember was my mom picked me up from preschool, and it was so strange because she had just dropped me off. We were the only ones in the pick-up line. And she was crying...the whole way home and the whole rest of the day and she wouldn't let me out of her sight. I had no clue what was happening, but I felt like everything had changed. It was weird because I don't have a lot of memories from being that age, but when I learned about 9/11 later on I instantly knew that it was the same day. I think when you are that young and you realize your parents aren't ok it sticks with you.

Gary & Family at a vigil on Sept 14, 2001

A generation of Americans has no memory of 9/11. Stories like Mary Elise's help them remember.

At the Gary Sinise Foundation, we're preserving the stories of those who experienced it so they can be shared with generations to come. We must never forget the pain we endured, the heroism we witnessed, or the togetherness we felt.

Your story is part of our history. Will you share it?

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