Soldiers pull casualties from Pentagon
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The American Airlines Boeing 757 hit the west side of the Pentagon at 9:20 a.m., just minutes after two airliners crashed into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. The plane hit an area of the Pentagon that had been newly renovated and some of the office space remained empty. However, the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel had recently moved into that wedge of the building, along with an element under the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans.
Among the first rescue workers at the Pentagon were dozens of soldiers from Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Medics, doctors and administrative specialists boarded buses at Walter Reed shortly after the crash. Medics set up blankets in the center courtyard of the Pentagon and treated at least three firemen for smoke inhalation.
"We were prepared for this because we trained for it," said Pfc. Christian Mendham, an administrative specialist from Walter Reed who was helping those with smoke inhalation. "But I never expected to actually do it."
The 3rd U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard) was at the Pentagon in force waiting into the evening for the flames to subside so that search and rescue work could begin. Several times during the day search teams approached the rubble only to be called back for safety reasons.
Other Old Guard soldiers provided logistical support at the site to include transportation, tents and litters. The Military District of Washington Engineer Company was brought in to assist with search and rescue, as was the 767th Ordnance Company from Fort McNair, D.C. The assisted a number of civilian emergency rescue teams that set up operations beyond the Pentagon helipad where the crash occurred.
About 300 soldiers of the Virginia National Guard were activated to help with the crisis. Military police, medical personnel and engineers were among those called to active duty.
In the District of Columbia, guardsmen of the 372nd MP Battalion were activated to assist with traffic control. All federal buildings were closed down after the terrorist attack and for much of the day traffic was kept from crossing bridges into the city.
In New York City, up to 2,000 troops of the New York National Guard were called up to provide traffic control in Manhattan and other support. Members of the Air Guard flew over the city to set up a protective air cap.
"I urge all members of the Army to remain vigilant against possible future attacks," said Secretary of the Army Thomas E. White. "Rest assured, America will prevail in the fight against terrorism-and our Army is prepared to do its part!"
White also expressed his condolences to the family members of all U.S. citizens killed or injured in the terrorist attacks.
The casualty numbers at the Pentagon were still trying to be determined as the fire continued burning this morning. DoD officials estimated the number of casualties at between 100-800.
The Army has established a hotline to ensure accountability of its solders, civilians and contractors who work in the Pentagon. Family members and friends of Army personnel at the Pentagon are also encouraged to call the line for information. The hotline numbers are (703) 428-0002 or 1-800-984-8523.
(FROM ARMY NEWS SERVICE)
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