I too was in the 1st grade when the shuttle exploded.

It was early in the morning, and many of us came to school early because we wanted to all watch the liftoff together. It was a special morning because Ellison Onizuka, a hometown hero, was among the crew.

I still remember being 6 years old and horrified at what happened. The principal came over the PA and we said prayers for the lost crew. The local news stations ran pieces on Ellison Onizuka all day that day, and whoever wanted to go home could go home.

I can't beleive that was 20 years ago.