Remembering Suzanne Calley as Sept. 11 Anniversary Approaches

Patch sites around the country are recalling the stories and tragedies that befell our towns after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. A decade later, the memory of that day still has a strong effect on the daily lives of people throughout the United States and the world.

What are some ways that your life has changed after 9/11? Have you seen trends in the economy, foreign policy and political correctness that have emerged in its aftermath? We'll be discussing these ideas, and more, over the next 10 days.

Don't forget to take part in Gilroy's on the Sunday anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001.

In the South County, friends of know the grief of the Sept. 11 tragedy all too well.

A decade can’t erase the memory of the active 42-year-old, a passenger on American Airlines flight 77 who died when al-Qaida terrorists took control of her plane and crashed it into the Pentagon.

Calley’s former employer, Cisco Systems, still maintains a quiet place dedicated to the one-time marketing manager.

The “Suzanne Calley Memorial Garden,” outside of Building 9 at Cisco’s San Jose headquarters, is a simple and calm space. A fountain churns nearby, and flowers surround two benches and a statue featuring the words, “Let there be peace on earth … and let it begin with me.”

Another plaque mentions Calley specifically:

“In memory of her laughter, zest for life, love for living creatures, and her dedication to the Cisco team,” it reads, “The events of Sept. 11, 2001, will not diminish her spirit.”

Patch, through its parent company, AOL, is involved in a project called ActionAmerica. The project is a collaboration of several corporations, individuals and non-profits organizations designed to honor those affected by the events of 9/11 and unify the country through positive action.