Dr. Melissa L. Strawser Reflects on Her Experience with Trauma After 9/11
Document Type
Personal Reflection
What were you doing on 9/11? (Or, What was your interviewee doing on 9/11?)
I was a civilian non-aviation employee. I was a United States Navy spouse. I was in Largo, Maryland commuting from just outside of Andrews AFB. As I pulled into work from my commute, the 1st plane hit the towers. As I walked into work, the 2nd plane hit the towers and the third hit the Pentagon. The building was filled with chaos, confusion, and disbelief. Reflecting 20 years later, it felt dystopian in nature.
How did 9/11 affect you personally and or professionally?
The events of 9/11 significantly impacted my life due to the PTSD suffered by my sailor. Now, my ex-husband. I relocated from DC to Florida and had to restart my career at a much lower level. I have personally processed the trauma over many years and still suffer with the collective trauma that is now enhanced by current events. My life was changed forever by that one day.
What do you want future generations of professionals, particularly those going into your field, to know about 9/11?
I want them to understand how impactful that day was and how it changed the freedoms we enjoyed in America. I want them to understand why we have safety protocols and learn trauma intelligence.
ERAU Active and Alumni Graduating Class of
2007
On 9/11, what sector were you (OR your interviewee) in?
Other (please specify)
If you selected Other, enter here:
Civilian, United States Navy Spouse
Event Location
Dr. Melissa L. Strawser Reflects on Her Experience with Trauma After 9/11
The events of 9/11 significantly impacted my life due to the PTSD suffered by my sailor. Now, my ex-husband. I relocated from DC to Florida and had to restart my career at a much lower level. I have personally processed the trauma over many years and still suffer with the collective trauma that is now enhanced by current events. My life was changed forever by that one day.
