To the Editor:

While thousands of people were running out of the burning Twin Towers 25 years ago, trying desperately to get out of Manhattan, the New York City fire, police and emergency workers were trying just as desperately to get in. They had no idea of what was in store for them. Many would lose their lives that day, but as first responders their commitment was to ensure the safety of others.

We will never know how many heroes there were that day, ordinary people helping others get out of those dark,…

September 16, 2026