Letter, Photocopy
- Description
- Handwritten letter on United States Marine Corps stationery addressed to the family of Charles Francis Xavier Heeran. The letter reads:
Dear Heeran family
Thank you so much for everything. It really does help me remember why I'm doing what I am. And it keeps all of us Marines motivated, especially those of us from New York. I'm supposed to be leaving this week for Greece and then taking a ship over to Kuwait. I'll be back in about 3 or 4 months an then probably going right back with my unit for another 7 months in Iraq. I know that Charlie is watching over myself and everyone else fighting for what is right. I promise to do everything in my power to defend this country and keep us all safe from the evils in this world, no matter what cost that may be. Thank you once again and I'll keep you all close to my heart.
Love Mike - Historical Notes
- Charles Heeran was born in Far Rockaway, Queens. He lived in Rockaway Beach, where he helped out at his father’s restaurant, tending bar and running events. A Cantor Fitzgerald sales trader, Charles had been offered a promotion to the company’s London office but turned it down to stay close to family. On September 11, Charles was at work on the North Tower’s 104th floor. He was 23 years old.
Curator's Comment
To prevent future attacks after 9/11, the U.S. government initiated a Global War on Terror, sending troops to Afghanistan and later to Iraq. Many Americans, such as the writer of the letter, joined the military after 9/11 to defeat supporters of terrorism and to honor the 2,977 individuals who perished on 9/11.
- Accession Number: C.2011.135.14
- Dimensions: 11 in X 8.5 in
- Dimensions (Metric): 27.94 cm X 21.59 cm
- Source: Annemarie Heeran
- Credit Line: Gift of the family of Charles Heeran
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