Des Moines International Airport personnel and travelers saw few changes on Sept. 11 compared to other days of the year.

Cars were inspected on the way into parking garages, and the United States was placed on a higher level of security.

Agents at the ticket counters said it has been a normal day with nothing out of the ordinary.

“It’s a slower day. People are afraid to travel,” said Raejean Kluzum, of Winterset.

Kluzum’s son, Clent, was flying back to San Diego where he serves in the Marines.

“[The security] is not any different from last time Clent came home on leave,” Kluzum said.

“We’re tense because he’s leaving us and because of what’s going on in the world.”

Pilots said they were aware of the increased tension, but were not afraid.

“You know there’s a heightened alert, but at the same time, I guess our feeling is we do have a reasonable amount of security and heightened security,” said Al Rozman, captain for American Eagle Airlines. “Nothing’s ever guaranteed in life whether you’re going in a car or doing anything else in life.”

Rozman is less than a year away from retirement and said life should be lived to its fullest.

“You have to trust and have no fear. That’s my opinion, I trust in God,” Rozman said.

Rozman spent the day touring Des Moines. He said he went to the Capitol, historical society buildings and was able to see older models of airplanes.

“I went to the third floor of this building and they were doing hot dogs, apple pie, chips and lemonade,” Rozman said.

He said the atmosphere is different from last September.

Last year, Rozman was at his home in Colorado. He said he invited some friends over for lunch and they told him to turn on his television.

“I saw the results of the first [plane],” Rozman said.

“I was in a period of disbelief and tears. You recognize right away it wasn’t an accident.”

He said right after the events of that day, he was flying and a person on the FBI’s watch list wanted to board his plane.

“The police had gone through their luggage and wanted to know if I would permit them on the aircraft,” Rozman said.

Rozman said yes, and allowed the person to board the plane.

After Sept. 11, 2001, Rozman was transferred to Miami and spent time in Dallas. He said he doesn’t get to see his family as much as he used to.

“I think one of the things we do is try to inform the passengers,” Rozman said. “We try to let them know what’s going on.”

He said he cannot be scared to do his job.

“I don’t have fears each and every day, I do have more heightened awareness,” Rozman said.