On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, Kayla Hill was a 12-year old heading to Montgomery County Middle School when she found out that tragedy hit the East Coast.

More than 2,900 people lost their lives due to the 9/11 attacks that hit New York City, Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, Pa.

“I remember arriving at the school watching our teachers crying,” Hill said. “We knew something bad had occurred, but it hadn’t sunk in yet.”

On Sept. 11, 2021, the Montgomery City resident and VFW Post 4436 senior vice commander got to share her experiences during a flag presentation at the Saturday In The Park event at Wabash Park.
The presentation commemorated the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. It also included a moment of silence, a prayer from Jim Cline, a gun salute and the playing of Taps.

“I want to remind us that these events should remind us of our freedom,” Cline said. “Freedom comes with great personal responsibility and a great price. I want to challenge you to pray for our country and look around you. Maybe you’re not one of these special groups, but you’re a citizen of our country and you need to encourage other people and help them.”

Hill said during her five-minute speech that no one thought the world would change after that horrible Tuesday morning.

“Most of us remember exactly where we were that day receiving the news of the attacks,” Hill said. “My personal experience during 9/11 was an eye opener. Needless to say, it’s a reminder to cherish every moment that we were given, to love without boundaries, respect kindness and always stay humble. This tragedy has brought our nation closer than it has ever been. Although it was one of the worst days some of us have ever experienced, it brought out the best in some of us.”

Hill, a 2007 Montgomery County High School graduate, also talked about Sept. 12, 2001, the day after the attacks. She said it was a day of healing for Americans.

“Our nation is not a representation of what happened on September 11, but it is remembered by what happened on September 12 with the selfless service, the love, the unity, our family and the comfort,” Hill said. “That day will never be forgotten. Our world needs more September 12ths. It reminded us that you never know when your last day is going to be.”

Hill, who grew up in a military family, served six years in the Army. Serving her country was something she started dreaming about when she was in elementary school.

“That tragedy (9/11 attacks) solidified that dream of mine,” Hill said.

Hill said every year since the attacks, she turns on the TV and radio to listen to the reading of every person who died.

“I feel angry, I feel sad and I feel dreadful all at the same time,” Hill said. “I’m angry that 19 individuals thought that it was a good idea. I’m sad for each and every family member and friend who lost someone that day. Above it all, I’m joyful because not a single one of those victims have been forgotten in 20 years. Every year, on this day, our nation hosts events across our country to remember these individuals. Through sadness, anger, hate and disgust, we must choose joy.”