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9/11: Reporters Recall Living Through the Attacks
14 Sep
Summary
- Reporters covered the 9/11 attacks while experiencing them firsthand.
- Photographer's camera acted as a barrier to the traumatic events.
- Some journalists found a sense of purpose in documenting history.
On September 11, 2001, several Associated Press journalists found themselves not just covering, but living through the devastating attacks on New York City. Karen Matthews was preparing her daughter for preschool when the first boom sounded, leading her to witness the unfolding events firsthand while holding her child.
Richard Drew, scheduled to cover Fashion Week, was instead photographing the attacks, his camera acting as a protective barrier. He captured poignant images, including the iconic "The Falling Man," reflecting on the psychological distance his profession provided.
Larry Neumeister arrived at a hospital expecting mass casualties, only to find the wheelchairs remained empty, illustrating the stark reality of the event's immediate aftermath. Jeremy Brown, a cameraman, was near the World Trade Center and sheltered from debris before reuniting with his father, a surreal moment amidst chaos.
Amy Sancetta, initially off duty, was called to downtown Manhattan. She described her journalistic instincts taking over as she documented the collapse of the towers and the dust-filled sky, wishing she could have captured more moments, while grappling with the human toll.
