Newburgh native will talk about stay in President's bunker during 9/11 attacks

NEWBURGH — Retired Lt. Col. Robert J. Darling, author of "24 Hours in the President's Bunker, 9-11-2001," will recount his personal experience during the terrorist attacks in a talk at 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 11, in the college's Aquinas Hall Theatre on campus, 330 Powell Ave., Newburgh.

In his talk "Never Forget," Darling will discuss what our leaders knew — and when — in the critical hours after the 9-11 attacks, as well as the steps they took to protect American citizens.

After the first plane crashed into the Twin Towers, then-Maj. Darling was quickly escorted to the President's Bunker. His talk presents a minute-by-minute account of the drama that unfolded beneath the White House during the attack.

Born and raised in Newburgh, Darling graduated from Newburgh Free Academy and Iona College. After tours in both the Middle East and Africa, he served in the White House Military Office, Airlift Operations Department for President George W. Bush.

Doors for the talk open at 3 p.m. Seating is limited and will be afforded on a first come, first serve basis. Admission is free.

Attendees may make a donation at the door to The Families of War Veterans, Hudson Valley if they wish.

There will be a book signing following the talk.

For more information, call 569-3222.