Many of you know that I was working in Manhattan on the day of the September 11th terrorist attacks.
The Story of My 9/11 was published in The Nevada Independent in a special 20th anniversary collection, and earlier this year I visited the Bush Presidential Library in Dallas, Texas to honor the victims and try to learn more about that tragic day.
Located on the campus of Southern Methodist University in Dallas' tony University Park neighborhood, the Bush Presidential Library:
"promotes an understanding of the American presidency, examines the specific time in history during which President Bush served, and provides access to official records and artifacts from the George W. Bush Administration."
Tickets are $26, which I thought was a little steep - and parking is another $10.
Prepare to go through an airport-style security check when entering the library; however, there was no line when I arrived, and I do not see the need to buy advance tickets.
As you enter the lobby, you can peruse the varied gifts to President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush from both foreign dignitaries and the American people, including jewelry, swords and even fancy dog bowls.
As you progress to the permanent exhibition, you learn about President George W. Bush's early life, the election vs. Al Gore, and then his two presidential terms including a large area commemorating 9/11 (with warped steel beams from the WTC).
Included in the exhibit on September 11th are George W. Bush's Commander in Chief jacket and his daily diary where you can see his movements before, during and after the terrorist attacks.
Reliving the events of that terrible day brought me to uncontrollable tears, and when I regained my composure, I was able to share my 9/11 story on a computer provided for visitors.
The most popular part of the permanent exhibit is a replica of the Bush Oval Office, where you can have your picture taken at the White House Presidential desk.
The museum's docents are very helpful with their additional information, and there is a gift shop as you leave where you can buy everything from White House paraphernalia to Laura Bush's cookbooks.
If you happen to be in Dallas this Fall, the Bush Presidential Library should be on your list to visit, especially if you wish to honor the victims of 9/11.
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