40 Facts About CeeCee Lyles

Early Life and Career

CeeCee Ross Lyles was a woman of remarkable strength and determination. Her journey from a small town in Florida to becoming a hero on United Airlines Flight 93 is a story worth telling.

1. CeeCee Ross Lyles was born on September 17, 1967, in Fort Pierce, Florida. Her early years in this small town shaped her values and ambitions.

2. Before becoming a flight attendant, CeeCee worked as a police officer in Fort Pierce. She started as a patrol officer and eventually rose to the rank of detective, earning respect from her colleagues.

3. In 1999, CeeCee decided to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a flight attendant. She completed her training with United Airlines and began her new career.

4. CeeCee's training as a flight attendant was rigorous and comprehensive. She learned about safety procedures, emergency protocols, and how to handle various situations that might arise during a flight.

5. CeeCee's first flight as a United Airlines flight attendant was a significant milestone. She was excited to start her new career and travel the world while ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers.

Personal Life and Values

CeeCee's personal life was filled with love and dedication to her family. Her values were reflected in her actions, both in her career and in her final moments.

6. CeeCee was married to Lorne Lyles, and they had two children. She was known for being the glue that held her family together.

7. CeeCee's family was very important to her. She often spoke about her love for her children and husband, and these sentiments were reflected in the messages she left for them on September 11, 2001.

8. In one of her messages to Lorne, CeeCee said, “You have to listen to me carefully. I’m on a plane that’s been hijacked.” This message conveyed the gravity of the situation and her determination to let him know what was happening.

9. CeeCee expressed her love for her children in her messages, saying, “Tell the kids that I love them.” This showed her deep concern for their well-being and her desire to protect them even in the face of danger.

The Tragic Events of September 11, 2001

On that fateful day, CeeCee's courage and professionalism shone through as she faced unimaginable danger.

10. On September 11, 2001, CeeCee was working as a flight attendant on United Airlines Flight 93. The plane took off from Newark International Airport bound for San Francisco but was hijacked by terrorists.

11. The hijackers forced their way into the cockpit and took control of the plane. They turned the plane around and headed towards Washington, D.C., instead of San Francisco.

12. CeeCee used her cell phone to call her husband, Lorne, twice that morning. In the first call, she mentioned that the plane was being hijacked and that she had heard about planes crashing into the World Trade Center.

13. In the second call, CeeCee mentioned that she and the other passengers were devising a plan to take back control of the plane. They planned to throw boiling hot water at the hijackers, showing their determination to resist the hijackers' actions.

14. Before ending the second call, CeeCee and Lorne said a prayer together. This moment highlights the spiritual strength and resilience she showed during this ordeal.

15. CeeCee ended the call by saying, “We’re getting ready to do it now. It’s happening!” These words indicate that she and the other passengers were preparing to take action against the hijackers.

16. Unfortunately, all 40 passengers and crew members onboard Flight 93 were killed when it crashed in an empty field outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The crash occurred at approximately 10:03 a.m., shortly after the passengers' planned action.

Legacy and Recognition

CeeCee's bravery and sacrifice have left a lasting legacy. Her story continues to inspire and be remembered through various tributes and memorials.

17. The actions taken by CeeCee and other passengers likely saved hundreds of lives on the ground. Their bravery and determination in the face of danger are an inspiration to many.

18. CeeCee's ability to remain calm and professional amidst chaos demonstrated incredible professionalism. Her actions that morning showcased the best of humanity under unimaginable circumstances.

19. CeeCee's legacy extends beyond her tragic end. She is remembered as a hero who exemplified courage, strength, and selflessness.

20. The National Park Service has recognized CeeCee's sacrifice by including her in their list of notable individuals. Her story is part of the broader narrative of the 9/11 attacks.

21. In celebration of Women's History Month, CeeCee's actions on 9/11 are honored as a testament to the strength and resilience of women. Her story highlights the critical role women played in the events of that day.

22. After CeeCee's death, her family faced immense grief and trauma. However, they found strength in her memory and continued to honor her legacy through various tributes and memorials.

23. The community in Fort Pierce and beyond rallied around CeeCee's family, providing support and comfort during their darkest hour. This outpouring of love and support is a testament to the impact CeeCee had on those around her.

24. Several memorials and tributes have been dedicated to CeeCee Lyles. These include a memorial at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania, where she is remembered alongside other passengers and crew members.

25. The Flight 93 National Memorial is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made on that fateful day. CeeCee's story is an integral part of this memorial, serving as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of all those involved.

Professionalism and Courage

CeeCee's background as a police officer and her training as a flight attendant equipped her with the skills and mindset needed to face the hijacking with courage and professionalism.

26. CeeCee's personal strength and determination were evident in her career as a police officer and later as a flight attendant. These traits helped her remain calm and focused during the hijacking.

27. CeeCee's actions on Flight 93 were documented by the 9/11 Commission. Her story serves as a critical part of the historical record, highlighting the heroic efforts of passengers and crew members that day.

28. The FBI investigated the events surrounding Flight 93, including CeeCee's phone calls to her husband. These calls provided crucial information about the hijacking and the passengers' attempts to regain control of the plane.

29. Another passenger, Jeremy Glick, also made a phone call to his mother-in-law. He informed her about the hijacking and the presence of hijackers with a bomb and a knife.

30. Mark Bingham, another passenger, called his mother to inform her about the hijacking. He stated that there were three hijackers and that he loved his family before the call ended abruptly.

31. Edward Felt, a passenger, used his cell phone to dial 911. He reported a hijacking in progress and was connected to the Westmoreland County 911 Center for approximately 70 seconds.

32. The 911 calls made by passengers and crew members provided critical information about the hijackings. These calls helped authorities understand the extent of the crisis and respond accordingly.

Messages of Love and Strength

CeeCee's final messages to her family were filled with love and strength, reflecting her deep commitment to her loved ones even in her last moments.

33. In her message to Lorne, CeeCee said, “I hope to be able to see your face again baby. I love you.” This message conveys her deep love for her family and her desire to be reunited with them.

34. CeeCee’s professionalism was evident in her handling of emergency situations. She remained calm and focused, ensuring that she followed all safety protocols and procedures.

35. CeeCee’s courage in the face of danger is a testament to her character. She continued to fight for her life and the lives of others even when all hope seemed lost.

36. CeeCee’s experience as a police officer influenced her actions on Flight 93. Her training and experience helped her remain calm and focused during the hijacking.

37. CeeCee’s actions on Flight 93 had a profound impact on her family and the families of other passengers. Her sacrifice serves as a reminder of the importance of family and love.

38. The community has honored CeeCee through various tributes, including a memorial service and a scholarship fund established in her name. These tributes reflect the respect and admiration she inspired in those around her.

39. CeeCee’s story is part of the broader historical narrative of 9/11. Her actions serve as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who lost their lives that day.

40. CeeCee’s legacy continues to inspire people today. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of courage, strength, and selflessness in the face of adversity.

CeeCee Lyles: A Legacy of Courage

CeeCee Lyles' story is one of bravery, love, and sacrifice. From her early days as a police officer to her final moments as a flight attendant on United Airlines Flight 93, she showed remarkable strength. Her actions on September 11, 2001, saved countless lives and left an indelible mark on history. The messages she left for her family, her calm demeanor during the crisis, and her willingness to fight back against the hijackers highlight her heroic spirit. Memorials and tributes continue to honor her, ensuring her legacy lives on. CeeCee's life reminds us of the power of courage and selflessness in the face of adversity. Her story will forever inspire those who hear it, serving as a testament to the human spirit's resilience.