I was a civilian on vacation during 9/11. I was in Seattle, Wash., when the planes hit the towers. Unable to return home to my law enforcement job, I was able to hitch a ride on a General Electric Challenger jet with FEMA employees and cadaver dogs.

We were one of the few aircraft exempt from the no-fly rule after the 9/11 tragedy. Approaching KHPN, I could see a thick haze rising up from the World Trade Center site. Being a lifelong New Yorker, the New York City skyline looked so different after that day. It was a sight I will never forget. Let none of us ever forget that day of tragedy and heroism. Today I stand a proud ALPA member.

First Officer Charles Castioni, CommutAir