Published 09 Sep, 2011
Ten years ago on Sept. 11, 2001 America faced one of the greatest travesties in its history as two planes struck the World Trade Center buildings in New York, another plane hit the Pentagon, and a fourth slammed to the ground in Shanksville, PA, killing a total of 3,000 people.
The nation came to a standstill that day.
Today, as Americans reflect and come together on its 10th anniversary, TWU would like to recognize our brothers and sisters who dedicated themselves, working day and night, to assist with the search and rescue efforts.
Transit workers were the majority of the work force, at one time, at Ground Zero helping with search and rescue efforts. Local 100 set up its headquarters only a few blocks away from the collapsed towers to supply and coordinate first responders. TWU members also searched the underground subway taverns for victims.
However, those lives that were saved and those who did survive did not go unscathed. Many people today are suffering from the physical and mental effects, such as post traumatic stress disorder and respiratory symptoms from being exposed to the World Trade Center dust, side effects inflicted on so many.
This weekend, as we come together, TWU recognizes the victims and those who courageously sacrificed their own lives for others 10 years ago.