On September 11, 2001, the Pentagon became one of the targets of a coordinated terrorist attack that forever changed American history. The devastation and loss were profound, but amidst the destruction, stories of resilience, courage, and survival emerged. LTC Marilyn Wills stands out as a symbol of strength and service to others, demonstrating that even in the darkest moments, the human spirit can endure.
**Marilyn Wills: Leadership Under Fire**
LTC Marilyn Wills recalls the morning of the attack beginning like any other, though she didn’t pray with her family as usual. On her drive to work, she listened to one of her favorite songs, *”Jesus Be a Fence All Around Me”*, as she admired the beautiful autumn skies over Washington, DC.
While attending a staff meeting at the Pentagon, American Airlines Flight 77 struck the building. The explosion was enormous, sending shockwaves through the room and flames streaming through the building. The impact threw Wills across the room. As she regained consciousness, she knew there was a door nearby to escape. But as she reached for it, the door burned her hand. Undeterred, she found another way out, crawling through thick smoke and debris.
As she crawled across a collapsed table, she realized others were following her. One person reached out and asked for help, unable to crawl any further. Wills, injured and disoriented, instructed her to climb onto her back, and she carried her to safety.
Despite the overwhelming smoke and flames, Wills led her colleagues to a window on the second floor. Together with her supervisor, they banged on the window, gasping for air in the smoke-filled room. Wills thought they might not survive. But after several attempts, the window finally opened, and the smoke poured out. Below, people shouted for them to jump.
Wills and her supervisor helped five colleagues climb out of the window. After ensuring everyone had made it safely to the ground, they remained at the window, hoping others would come. But no one did.
Wills’ supervisor then ordered her to leave. “This was the only order in my military career I didn’t want to obey,” Wills said. Together, they climbed down a human ladder formed by people below. Her selflessness and determination ensured no one was left behind. For her bravery, Wills received the Soldier’s Medal, and her injuries earned her the Purple Heart. She continues to inspire others as a servant leader.
**Overcoming Trauma and Healing**
The physical injuries suffered by survivors were only one part of the toll. The emotional scars were deep, and many, including Wills, faced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and long-term anxiety. For many, healing meant seeking support from fellow survivors, sharing their experiences, and ensuring future generations remember 9/11. Wills has since advocated for the importance of mental health resources and continuous support for those affected.
**Lessons in Resilience**
The stories of the Pentagon survivors highlight several important lessons about resilience:
– **Adaptability in Crisis**: Remaining calm and making quick decisions were crucial to survival. Wills and her colleagues acted swiftly, showing the power of clear-headed thinking under pressure.
– **Strength in Unity**: Survivors supported each other, proving that resilience is not just an individual trait, but a collective force.
– **Long-Term Healing**: Recovery from trauma is a lifelong journey. Seeking support, sharing experiences, and finding purpose in remembrance play vital roles in healing.
– **Never Forgetting**: Survivors continue to share their stories, ensuring that the heroism and lessons of 9/11 remain part of our history.
**Finding Strength in Adversity**
Resilience is not just about surviving; it’s about rebuilding, finding strength in adversity, and honoring the memory of those we lost. The survivors of the Pentagon attack embody this resilience, showing us that even in the face of unimaginable tragedy, courage and humanity prevail. Wills’ stories remind us to not only remember 9/11 but to also honor the strength of those who endured it.
Cited sources
Stars and Stripes. Pentagon terrorist attacks: Army reflects 20 years later. Stars and Stripes. Published September 9, 2021. Available at: https://www.stripes.com/history/9_11_20_years_later/2021-09-09/pentagon-terrorist-attacks-army-anniversary-2827435.html. Accessed January 8, 2025.
YouTube. UBLkbbvaRNo [Video]. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBLkbbvaRNo. Accessed January 8, 2025.
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