A group of Tampa Bay residents recently came together to honor the legacy of September 11, 2001 through a home restoration project. Pasco resident Aneisha Johnson, an Air Force veteran who served in Operation Enduring Freedom, is moving into a restored home on the anniversary date after losing her home insurance following the 2024 hurricanes. Through Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, she received help from Owens Corning for materials and Veterans Contracting for the roof repair work. Several team members shared their personal stories of that day, including construction manager Colin McGrail who was working in Midtown Manhattan when the towers fell, and Justin Coles who was 12 years old and witnessed fighter jets overhead. The project represents a full circle moment for Johnson, who had been stationed in Tampa at McDill Air Force Base 20 years ago before serving her country. As they worked together to rebuild Johnson’s home, the group reflected on how the inspiring spirit of community service from that day continues to influence their work today.
Key Points:
- Pasco resident Aneisha Johnson is moving into a restored home on September 11, 2024 after losing her home insurance following the 2024 hurricanes.
- Johnson received help from Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, Owens Corning for donated materials, and Veterans Contracting for roof repair work.
- Colin McGrail was a construction manager in Midtown Manhattan working near Times Square when the towers fell on September 11, 2001.
- Justin Coles was 12 years old on that day and lived in Manhattan where he witnessed fighter jets overhead and saw people covered in dust and blood at a nearby church.
- Aneisha Johnson served six years in Operation Enduring Freedom after high school, inspired by her grandfather who served in the Air Force.
