1. The 9/11 Attacks Prompted a Surge in Patriotism
Following the attacks, Texans, like the rest of America, were overcome with a sense of patriotism. Texas saw a surge in American flag sales, as people hung them from their porches, car windows, and businesses in support of the country. Even schools in Texas started reciting the Pledge of Allegiance every day, something that hadn't been practiced since the 1960s.

2. The Experience of a Texas 9/11 Survivor
A Texas survivor of the 9/11 attacks, Tonya Guzman, was working in the World Trade Center that day. She and her coworkers, who were attending a conference, were able to escape the building before the collapse. Guzman, who suffered serious injuries, has since become an advocate for workplace safety, traveling the country to speak about her survival and the importance of preparation.

3. DFW Airport Became a Hub for Evacuees
In the aftermath of the attacks, commercial aviation was halted, leaving thousands of travelers stranded across the country. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) became a hub for evacuees, accommodating stranded passengers and aiding in the transportation of rescue and relief teams.

4. Texans Responded with Generosity
Texans' natural friendliness and generosity came to the forefront after the attacks, as the state became one of the most generous in terms of donations and volunteer efforts. The University of Texas alone raised over $500,000 for the American Red Cross, while Texas A&M University students donated blood and helped in the recovery efforts.

5. The Creation of the Texas Task Force 1
In response to the 9/11 attacks, Texas created the Texas Task Force 1, a specialized search and rescue team dedicated to helping with natural disasters, domestic terrorism, and other emergencies. The team has since responded to countless emergencies around the world, including Hurricane Katrina and the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Today, Texas Task Force 1 is recognized as one of the premier urban search and rescue teams in the United States.