A Lieutenant Commander in the Navy.

“As we were all watching and waiting and wondering we saw the second plane hit 18 minutes later,” Retired Commander in the United State Navy, Robert Turner explained.

A little girl in school.

“I think I was in like fourth grade but I really didn’t understand what was going on,” a Sgt. in the Army National Guard, Teneya Gladney added.

“It is important to keep the stories alive for those who actually answered the call of duty that day or who were victims it impacted everyone that day,” Gladney.

A second Grader and 4 year old were among the youngest who drove with their parents from Nashville for the 9/11 Volunteer Day.

Both took a day off from school to learn about the terror attacks on that day.

A lesson of history through a day of service at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Gladney and her daughter Aniyah grabbed a bucket and brush to clean headstones in sections I through J.

“I think experience and that hands on is just giving back and understanding even though she doesn’t understand it now per say but there was someone willing to give everything for you,” Gladney said.

Carry The Load, an organization founded by two Navy Seals in Dallas, Texas partnered with National Cemetery Association.

This is the first year people came out to do this in Chattanooga. Organizers say this is an active way for people to honor those who have served our country. Whether you’re a retired Commander of the Navy, a kid in school or a service member, it’s a chance to remember and learn about a day in history we’ll never forget.