A community in Cornwall, England, has commemorated the life and actions of Rick Rescorla, a Cornish hero of the September 11th attacks. Rescorla, who was born in Hayle, Cornwall, was the head of security at the World Trade Center and is credited with saving approximately 2,500 lives during the 2001 attacks.
During the events of September 11, 2001, Rescorla's calm demeanor and decisive actions were instrumental in evacuating the South Tower of the World Trade Center. He is remembered for his bravery in returning to the building to ensure that everyone was evacuated, even as the danger escalated.
Children at a local school in Hayle reflected on Rescorla's story, with one student, Niyah, 10, noting that he "sang Cornish songs" to calm people during the evacuation. Another student, Seth, 10, expressed admiration for Rescorla's courage, stating he must have been "very brave to be able to go back in there and save more people knowing that his life was at risk."
The commemoration includes a "Rick Rescorla Wildlife Garden," marked by a welcoming wooden gate, which serves as a reminder of his legacy. The event also featured scallop shell poppies laid in the ground, a poignant symbol of remembrance.
Rescorla, who later emigrated to the United States, served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam and was known for his strong leadership and dedication to the safety of others. His actions on September 11th have cemented his place as an inspirational figure, particularly within his home community of Cornwall.