09/11/2026
Every year on the anniversary of September 11, my husband has a tradition: he shares the story of Richard Cyril “Rick” Rescorla with as many people as he can.
Yesterday, when we visited the 9/11 Memorial, he shared a quote with me:
“Every man has two deaths: when he is buried in the ground and the last time someone says his name.” -Ernest Hemingway
I would like to join him in sharing Rick’s story.
25 years ago today, Rick Rescorla evacuated more than 2,500 people from the South Tower before returning inside…
He was the Vice President of Corporate Security for Morgan Stanley, working on the 44th floor of the South Tower, when the first plane struck the North Tower.
The Port Authority directed those in his building to stay in place, but Rescorla knew better. He began evacuating his colleagues. Using a bullhorn, he calmly directed everyone he saw to exit the building.
When the second plane struck the South Tower, Rescorla continued directing the evacuation, singing military songs to keep people calm and telling evacuees:
“Today is a day to be proud to be an American. Tomorrow, the world will be looking at you.”
When his coworkers urged him to leave with them, he responded:
“As soon as I make sure everyone else is out.”
Rescorla was last seen on the 10th floor, heading upstairs for one final sweep to make sure everyone was out. The South Tower collapsed shortly afterward, at 9:59am.
In his last phone call to his wife, Rescorla said:
“Stop crying. I have to get these people out safely. If something happens to me, I want you to know I’ve never been happier. You made my life.”
Rick Rescorla was 62 years old.
His body was never found.
A Cornishman who became an American hero.
If you’re in New York City, Rick Rescorla’s name is inscribed on Panel S-46 of the National September 11 Memorial’s South Pool.
