A Hero's Redemption: President Trump to Honor Welles Crowther with the Medal of Freedom

In a poignant twist of fate, President Donald Trump has announced his intention to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Welles Crowther, a Boston College graduate and 9/11 hero, posthumously. This esteemed honor not only recognizes Crowther's extraordinary bravery on that fateful day but also serves as a testament to the enduring impact of his selfless actions.

A Life of Purpose and Service

Crowther's story is one of courage and sacrifice, a shining example of what it means to live a life of purpose and service. On September 11, 2001, then 24-year-old Crowther, a young investment banker, was working on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center when the first plane struck. Undaunted by the chaos and destruction unfolding around him, Crowther sprang into action, using his own life jacket to save at least a dozen people from the tower's upper floors before the building collapsed, taking his life.

“Welles was a hero that day, but his heroism didn't stop when the towers fell. His legacy continues to inspire us to this day, reminding us of the importance of selfless service and the transformative power of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”

Crowther's remarkable story did not begin on 9/11. Growing up in New York, he was raised with a strong sense of social responsibility and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. At Boston College, he was an accomplished student and athlete, earning a degree in Economics and playing lacrosse for the Eagles. It was at BC that Crowther developed the values and character that would ultimately define his heroic actions on that fateful day.

A Lasting Legacy

Since his passing, Crowther's family and friends have worked tirelessly to preserve his legacy, establishing the Welles Remy Crowther Trust to support organizations that promote youth development and disaster relief. The trust has also created the Welles Remy Crowther Good Samaritan Fund, which provides financial assistance to families who have lost loved ones in tragic circumstances.

What's Next

The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, will be awarded to Crowther at a ceremony in the coming months. While this recognition is a fitting tribute to his bravery, it is only one piece of a much larger puzzle. As we reflect on Crowther's life and legacy, we are reminded of the importance of living a life of purpose and service. His story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, ordinary people can make extraordinary differences. As we look to the future, let us strive to carry on Crowther's legacy, inspiring others to do the same.