11/05/09

November 5, 2009, will always be etched in my mind. On that day I left work to pickup my son to attend the graduation ceremony on Fort Hood. We arrived in the parking lot of Howze Auditorium, and I overheard someone on the phone announcing that there had been shooters on the base and they were headed in our direction. My immediate reaction was confusion, fear and a longing to be somewhere far away. It was at that moment my son squeezed my hand, saying “Mommy, I’m too young to die.” I looked down at his face and reassured him we were going to be alright as we proceeded to the entrance door of the auditorium. Wow. Never in my life did I feel so helpless, yet I knew God was in control of it all.

As more people hurried inside the building and into seats, a soldier made an announcement for all senior NCOs to do a two-person post-up at all of the entrance/exit doors. Again, it became so surreal I could not believe what was going on. I said my prayers and focused on the ceremony that had just begun. Although the graduation was overshadowed by the day’s events, it was a remarkable triumph for those men and women that crossed the stage. Before the ceremony’s ending remarks, another announcement was made that we were officially on lock-down and would have to remain inside the facility until further notice. As I looked around to see everyone’s reaction to the news, there seemed to be a calm in the building…no one was panicking.

Soon news began to spread in the building that there were multiple shooters and confirmed injuries and deaths. Everyone was either on the phone talking or texting, trying to find out from the outside what was going on. Unfortunately, my battery died; however, I was able to send word to my family and friends via text that my son and I were okay. Several hours elapsed and soldiers began bringing food and water for us which was a welcomed treat, especially for those suffering from diabetes.

Now it was well after seven o’clock and word was coming down that the lock-down would be lifting. We received word that we were allowed to leave; however, we must check out with the soldier posted at the exit door. As my son and I sat in the long line trying to get off base, I recalled the day’s events and gave thanks to God.

I am thankful for the quick action that was taken at the auditorium to ensure the safety of our lives.


God Bless Us All!
Erica S. White,
Assistant Web Master
Central Texas College