9/11 20 years later: Looking back, carrying forward
MILLSBORO, Del. – When William Butler joined the FDNY, he never expected to become a part of one of the deadliest disasters in New York City’s history. “They immediately came over the loudspeaker in the fire house and said that a plane had hit the World Trade Center,” said Butler. “It was just like, this can’t be happening.”
A Helmet, a Photo, a Miracle
Butler and the rest of Engine 6 arrived on scene, and the South Tower had already collapsed. He and the crew were inside the North Tower getting search and recovery instructions when the North Tower began to crumble. “We were trapped amongst the rubble. At that point, it took a period of time for us to realize that the entire building had collapsed,” said Butler.
Sometimes, it’s the little things that really keep those memories and their meanings alive. Take for example a scarred helmet that protected former Butler as the North Tower came crashing down, and a photo of the six firemen who emerged from the rubble. It’s memories like those that Butler says inspires him to keep honoring his fallen brothers and sisters.
Passing The Torch
He says passing along the story of that September morning to the next generation and leading by example is one place to start. “By doing the right thing, people doing the right thing, even when nobody is looking, certainly goes back and honors those people,” said Butler. “I think that’s the thing that makes them most curious, is like how? How could this possibly happen?”
Butler says 20 years after 9/11, he’s making it his mission to make sure that day is never forgotten. During the week leading up to the 20th anniversary, Butler spent some of his time sharing his story with teens and young adults who weren’t around yet to remember. “I think the biggest thing with them is looking at a video, seeing this building fall down, and now they have somebody in front of them that was in that building,” said Butler.
Looking Back, Moving Forward
For those who plunged into the wreckage on that day, and the loved ones who were waiting for them at home, honoring the fallen and supporting survivors is a never-ending mission. “For me to be able to recognize what people do on a continuous basis, and try to pay that forward a little bit, because after 9/11 so many people throughout the country – so many people, first responders – came to us and help us,” said Butler.
That’s where organizations like Tunnel To Towers comes into play. Butler works with them to make sure the ones who gave so much 20 years ago know they’re not alone today, no matter where they are now. “They’ve actually expanded throughout the country. They were able to help take care of families of first responders who were suddenly thrust into a horrible, horrible situation,” said Butler.
Ultimately, for Butler and others with a similar pursuit, it’s not just about rebuilding and remembering. It’s about growing stronger for those who never got the chance. “I think it’s important to keep the memory going, not only in honor of those people, but to make sure that this never happens again,” said Butler.
