Welles Crowther, the 9/11 hero posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, was profoundly shaped by his experiences at the Empire Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 in Upper Nyack, New York, according to the firehouse president. David "Trevor" Gottlieb stated that Crowther's mother, Alison, emphasized the crucial role the volunteer firehouse played in his ability to act heroically during the terrorist attacks.
Gottlieb, who joined the firehouse in 1988, noted Crowther began around 1993. Crowther's father, Jefferson, was also a long-standing member, having served as captain and treasurer, underscoring the multi-generational nature of volunteer fire service and Crowther's deep roots within the organization. "Kid's been coming down here since he could walk," Gottlieb said.
Crowther, known as the "man in the red bandana," was a stockbroker working in the South Tower on September 11, 2001. He used his red bandana to help himself breathe and to identify himself to rescuers as he assisted at least 18 civilians to safety before losing his own life. Gottlieb suggested that Crowther's effectiveness stemmed from his training and upbringing, enabling him to act decisively amidst chaos.
"I think what Welles' impression he left upon us was anything's possible," Gottlieb reflected. "And when you're faced with, you know, 108 floors and the chaos and the destruction all around you, when you sit back and rely on your training, on how you were brought up, I think that makes your job much easier."
The traditions of community and sacrifice at Empire Hook and Ladder are central to its identity. Gottlieb described a deep sense of camaraderie, stating, "I would lay my life down for any one of them. And I think they would do the same for me." This principle, he added, is instilled in members and perfected over generations.
According to Gottlieb, Crowther's actions embodied the spirit of volunteer firefighters, who prioritize helping others regardless of background. "When you look at what happened that day, somebody made the decision to not run. They made the decision to stay and help. And they didn't ask if you're a Republican, a Democrat, a Muslim, a Jew, a Catholic," he said. "You're somebody who needs help."
Gottlieb also highlighted the lasting impact of 9/11, mentioning that two other members of Empire Hook and Ladder, Harry Wannamaker Jr. and Joe Stach Jr., died from health complications related to the attacks. "We should never forget the sacrifice that everybody made, in particular Welles. But there was 343 other firemen that died," he stated.
He urged more people to consider volunteering for local fire departments, noting a current shortage of volunteers. "Volunteer fire service is hurting for people right now. Everybody's too busy to volunteer," Gottlieb said, encouraging potential volunteers to make time to help their communities. "Your community will be better for it."