Remembering 9/11
History tells us what happened. Memory reminds us why it mattered. Through the perspectives of someone who witnessed 9/11, served through its aftermath, and later taught its history to the next generation, this presentation invites students to remember with purpose, honor those who served and sacrificed, and consider what it means to be responsible citizens in a changing America.
Why This Presentation Matters Today
In an era of rapid information and shifting perspectives, remembering 9/11 is about more than history—it is about the enduring resilience of the human spirit and the sacrifice that defines our character. This presentation bridges the past and present, challenging today’s students to embrace civic responsibility and leadership through the lens of national unity. By fostering media literacy and an appreciation for constitutional freedoms, we empower the next generation to lead with service and purpose in a complex world.
A Unique Perspective
Few people have experienced the legacy of September 11 from as many perspectives. Chris entered the Army before the attacks, witnessed 9/11 as it unfolded, and spent the next 23 years serving during the era it defined—including deployments in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. After retiring as a lieutenant colonel, he taught government and history, helping students understand not only what happened on September 11, but why its impact continues to shape our nation today.
Chris also completed educator training through the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, incorporating nationally recognized best practices for teaching this difficult subject. The result is a presentation that combines firsthand experience, historical context, and a commitment to helping students think critically about service, sacrifice, citizenship, and the enduring impact of September 11. Due in large part to his unique perspective, Chris was also featured on a CBS "Eye On America" segment that highlighted the work being done by the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
What Students Will Experience
Students won't simply learn about the events of September 11—they'll experience the story through history, personal perspective, and thoughtful reflection. Students will:
While rooted in the events of September 11, this presentation reaches beyond history. Students are challenged to think critically about leadership, service, sacrifice, resilience, and citizenship—timeless lessons that remain relevant long after the presentation ends. Rather than simply remembering what happened, students are encouraged to consider what they will do with the freedoms and opportunities they have today.
- Gain a clear understanding of the events of September 11 and their lasting impact on America.
- Hear firsthand reflections from someone whose military service spanned both before and after the attacks.
- Explore the courage, sacrifice, and resilience demonstrated by first responders, military members, and ordinary citizens.
- Examine how September 11 reshaped national security, public service, and everyday life in the United States.
- Consider what responsible citizenship, leadership, and service look like in their own generation.
- Leave with a deeper appreciation for the freedoms they enjoy and the responsibilities that accompany them.
“To remember is not just to look back, but to carry the lessons of service and sacrifice into every community we lead today.”
Presentation Key Themes
Remembering with Purpose
Understanding what happened on September 11 is only the beginning. Students explore why remembering our history matters and how it shapes the choices we make today.
Service and Sacrifice
From first responders and ordinary citizens to members of the armed forces, students discover how selfless service emerged in the face of tragedy—and why those examples still matter.
The Responsibility of Citizenship
Twenty-five years later, students reflect on how 9/11 changed our nation and consider what it means to live with purpose, responsibility, and gratitude in a free society.
