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CNMI residents remember, reflect on events of 9/11
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Posted on Sep 11 2004
By Cassie DLG Fejeran
Special to the Saipan Tribune
The Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks brought home the ugly reality of terrorism not just to residents of the United States but to CNMI residents as well, with memories of that tragic day still Technicolor vivid in everyone’s mind.
“I feel sad for the victims and their families. The 9/11 incident has made me wonder if the [United States] government could really protect us,” said Janet Santiago in an interview.
For much of the world, 9/11 has become this generation’s equivalent of the Kennedy assassination, with people knowing exactly where they were, what they were doing, and at what time they learned of the attacks.
Santiago related that her brother-in-law was leaving New York State shortly before the incident occurred. “I was up late watching TV and it just so happened that I switched the channel and it showed the first building that got hit. I called up my sister to know if her husband was still in the state, but she said that he should be coming home already,” she said.
Noke Rogopes of Koblerville said that his cousin was expected to board the same plane that crashed. “My first cousin is in the Marines. He was supposed to be on one of those airplanes. When I heard and saw what happened, I just thanked God that my cousin didn’t go on that airplane,” he said.
“I will never forget what happened,” he added.
Three years later, others are still seeking to find the reason behind the attacks. “I don’t know why this had to happen. It made me think how people don’t really know what’s important in life. All they think about it dominating the world instead of helping people,” said Manny Tenorio Jr.
In memory of the loss, Tenorio said he visits the church every Sept. 11 to burn candles. “I pray and burn candles and remember the people and the innocent lives of those who have died and those who are suffering from their loss,” he said.
Despite the tragedy that affected many people, it still remains the same for Rufina I. Duenas and Maria “Lilly” Snyder, who were both born on Sept. 11. “It’s hard for my sister Lilly to celebrate her birthday because everyone nationwide are still mourning their loss,” said Juanita Fejeran.
