Karen Martin
From September 11 Memories
Karen Ann Martin (1961-2001) was a 40 year old flight attendant from Danvers, Massachusetts. Her brother, Paul Martin, is a computer programmer for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Martin died September 11, 2001 on board American Airlines Flight 11.
Both Karen's parents had passed away and she was dedicated to keeping her remaining family close and helping her younger sister, who has learning difficulties, become educated and self-sufficient. Karen and her siblings were very close to their aunt who passed away from a heart attack on the morning of September 11, 2001 after the confirmation of Karen's death was realized. Those of us from the Danvers area who knew Karen weren't surprised to hear that she lost her life trying to fend off the terrorists from entering the cockpit and assuming control of Flight 11. As we understand it, she was the first victim of the terrorist attacks on 9/11. She was on the first plane that hit the WTC, and had her throat slit by one of the terrorists as she tried to protect her crew and passengers.
Tributes
Few will ever understand who Karen was. We grew up together...across the street from one another. We were all mutual components in our lives. Karen had the toughest road in childhood I ever knew. Through all the challenges and difficulties, she led her siblings with purpose and strength. She had that special toughness at the ready that I have rarely seen in anyone.
I was not at all surprised to hear that she stood-up to the terrorists. That was simply fundamental to her nature. And I could not even deal with her death. I did not deal with it until Karen's sister Susan told me of her death at a coffee shop 3-months later. I fell appart right then and there in public, and Karen stood strong against a real nightmare. To call you a "true hero" Karen would not do justice to all that you were.
At our 20th HS reunion Karen and I discussed the pending birth of my first child. She was so excited for my wife and I. I'm so sorry you never got to meet him Karen. He's wonderful. I tell him about you often.
This was not supposed to happen! Especially to you!
I can't write any more.
Rob Brown of Danvers Now in Chester NH
