Honoring Welles Crowther: A Legacy of Heroism and Community

During a ceremony on Tuesday, President Donald Trump posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Welles Crowther for his acts of heroism during the 9/11 terrorist attack. Crowther’s mother, Alison, emphasized the importance of the Upper Nyack, New York volunteer firehouse, where Welles received his training.

Welles would not have been able to do what he did as effectively on 9/11 without the training and experience from Empire Hook and Ladder Company Number One of Upper Nyack, Alison explained.

David “Trevor” Gottlieb, Empire Hook and Ladder Company Number One president, told Fox News Digital that Crowther’s dedication was shaped by the volunteer firehouse’s traditions of community service and sacrifice. Gottlieb recounted joining the company in 1988 and noted Crowther’s involvement began around 1993.

For 25 years, Crowther’s story has become legendary. Known as the “man in the red bandana,” Crowther carried the bandana in his wallet as he worked in the South Tower. When the attack occurred, he sprang into action, guiding people to safety amidst the chaos.

Welles Crowther was in the towers, working for a trading firm that day. He helped rescue at least 18 civilians before losing his life, Gottlieb said.

According to Gottlieb, Crowther’s instinctive bravery stemmed from principles ingrained at Empire Hook and Ladder. Gottlieb highlighted the firehouse’s tradition, with five generations contributing to the company, fostering pride, dedication, and community commitment.

He expressed that the firehouse family is bonded by a mutual willingness to lay down their lives for one another, a spirit honed over years and generations of service.

Crowther’s sacrifice is seen as a testament to the volunteer firefighter spirit, Gottlieb noted, which transcends divisions to focus on helping those in need.

Gottlieb also mentioned the 343 firefighters who died on 9/11, along with Empire’s own Harry Wannamaker Jr. and Joe Stach Jr., who suffered health complications related to the attacks.

We should never forget. The sacrifices made by Welles and others leave lasting scars on families, he said.

Gottlieb encouraged volunteering at local fire departments, emphasizing the rewarding experience it offers, from driving fire trucks to using specialized tools. With volunteer fire services lacking personnel, he urged people to make time and contribute, strengthening their communities.