photo #8361605

When hijacked Flight 175 struck the South Tower of the World Trade Center, individuals on the 78th floor sky lobby gathered in fear and confusion. They felt there was no way out. Suddenly, a man with a red bandana covering his face emerged from the debris and smoke. He spoke soothingly and directed them to a stairway, leading them to safety. The man in the red bandana made three trips to the sky lobby, rescuing as many individuals as he could, until the burning structure collapsed. A few months after 9/11, accounts from survivors began to emerge regarding the enigmatic man in the red bandana. Upon reading an article about the hero in the New York Times, Alison Crowther recognized that the man was her son, 24-year-old Welles Crowther. He had carried a red handkerchief since childhood. Welles Crowther was employed as an equities trader and also served as a volunteer firefighter. The courage and heroism displayed by Welles Crowther on 9/11 will forever be remembered. As survivor Judy Wein, who was saved by Crowther, remarked, “People can live 100 years and not possess the compassion, the determination to do what he did.” Currently, Welles Crowther’s red bandana is exhibited in the Museum. Today, May 17th, marks the birthday of Welles Remy Crowther, who, on 9/11/2001, was a 24-year-old equities trader who utilized his firefighting skills to save at least a dozen individuals during the South Tower attack. Welles was discovered on March 19, 2002, alongside FDNY members who were also present in the South Tower when it fell. Please take a moment to remember this brave young man on his birthday...and always honor the memory of those who perished on 9/11...and pay tribute to their sacrifices. Welles' character serves as a model for all of us to emulate.