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Nyack Native and 9/11 Hero Welles Remy Crowther (May 17, 1977 – September 11, 2001)

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7 years ago

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Photo credit In Memoriam Sept 11/Facebook

Today, May 17th, is the birthday of Nyack native Welles Remy Crowther (May 17, 1977 – September 11, 2001) who, on 9/11/ 2001 was a 24-year-old equities trader who used his fireman skills to save as many as 18 people when the South Tower was attacked.

At 16, Crowther joined his father as a volunteer firefighter, becoming a junior member of the Empire Hook and Ladder Company. After graduating from Nyack High School, he would attended Boston College, where he played lacrosse. After Boston College, he moved to New York City to take a job as an equities trader for Sandler O’Neill and Partners on the 104th floor of South Tower of the World Trade Center.

After the plane crashed into the building, Crowther immediately made his way to the 78th floor sky lobby, where he encountered a group of survivors, including a badly burned Lin Young, who worked on the 86th floor in New York’s Department of Taxation and Finance. Young had been one of about 200 people waiting at a bank of elevators to evacuate when the plane hit the tower and among the few survivors. Crowther, carrying a young woman on his back, directed them to the one working stairway. The survivors followed him 17 floors down, where he dropped off the woman he was carrying before heading back upstairs to assist others. By the time he returned to the 78th floor, he had a bandana around his nose and mouth to protect him from smoke and haze. He found another group of survivors, which included AON Corp. employee Judy Wein, who worked on the 103rd floor and was in pain from a broken arm, cracked ribs and a punctured lung. According to Wein, Crowther assisted in putting out fires and administering first aid. He then announced to that group, “Everyone who can stand, stand now. If you can help others, do so.” He directed this group downstairs as well. As occupants of the Tower headed for the street, Crowther returned up the stairs to help others. He was last seen doing so with members of the FDNY before the South Tower collapsed at 9:59 a.m.

VIDEO – Hear from Lin Young

Crowther’s family was unaware of the details of his heroism, until Allison Crowther read Judy Wein’s firsthand account in The New York Times of being saved by a man in a red bandana, which led to Allison meeting with the people Welles had saved, including Wein and Young. They confirmed from photographs the identity of the man who aided them. According to survivor accounts, Crowther saved as many as 18 people following the attacks.

Welles was found on March 19, 2002 with the FDNY members and emergency workers who were also in the South Tower Lobby when it collapsed.

President Obama speaks about Welles Crowther

His story was featured in a documentary titled – “The man in the Red Bandana”

Please remember this courageous young man on his birthday…and always remember all those we lost on 9/11. Happy birthday, Welles.

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Flag Day 2026: America Celebrates 249 Years of the Stars and Stripes June 14

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21 hours ago

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June 14, 2026

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Americans across the country will celebrate Flag Day on June 14, honoring the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States.

Flag Day commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Second Continental Congress approved a resolution establishing an official flag for the newly formed nation. The resolution stated that the flag would feature thirteen alternating red and white stripes and thirteen white stars on a blue field representing a new constellation.

This year marks the 249th anniversary of the American flag, making one of the nation’s most recognizable symbols nearly two and a half centuries old.

Although Flag Day is not a federal holiday, communities nationwide mark the occasion with ceremonies, patriotic displays, parades, and educational programs recognizing the history and significance of the American flag.

The observance gained national attention in the late 19th century through the efforts of teachers, veterans, and civic organizations who advocated for a day dedicated to the flag. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation officially establishing June 14 as Flag Day. Congress later designated the date as National Flag Day in 1949.

The American flag has served as a symbol of freedom, unity, and resilience throughout the nation’s history. From military service members and first responders to schools and civic institutions, the flag remains a powerful representation of the values and ideals of the United States.

While the flag itself is 249 years old, the current 50-star version of the Stars and Stripes is 66 years old. It became the official flag of the United States on July 4, 1960, following Hawaii’s admission as the nation’s 50th state. The 50-star flag is also the longest-serving version in American history, having remained unchanged for more than six decades.

Many Americans choose to display the flag outside their homes and businesses on Flag Day. The U.S. Flag Code encourages citizens to treat the flag with respect and outlines guidelines for its proper display and care.

As the Stars and Stripes fly across cities, towns, and neighborhoods on June 14, Flag Day serves as a reminder of the nation’s history, the sacrifices made by generations of Americans, and the enduring symbol that continues to unite the nation.

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New City Street Fair Returns Sunday, June 14

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4 days ago

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June 11, 2026

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Get ready for a day of shopping, dining, and community fun as the New City Street Fair returns on Sunday, June 14.

With beautiful weather in the forecast, visitors can enjoy one of Rockland County’s most popular outdoor events, featuring local vendors, artisans, food vendors, businesses, and family-friendly attractions throughout the heart of New City.

The street fair offers something for everyone, from unique handcrafted goods and specialty products to delicious food and treats from local favorites. Attendees will also have the opportunity to support small businesses while enjoying a lively atmosphere filled with entertainment and community spirit.

Whether you’re looking to shop, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy a day outdoors with family and friends, the New City Street Fair is the perfect way to spend a Sunday in Rockland County.

Visitors are encouraged to come early, explore the many vendors, and take advantage of what promises to be a beautiful day in downtown New City.

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