Who was Welles Crowther. How did he become known as the Man in the Red Bandana. What heroic actions did he take on September 11, 2001. How has his legacy inspired others.

The Early Life of Welles Crowther: A Spirit of Service

Welles Crowther, born and raised in Upper Nyack, New York, exhibited an extraordinary spirit of selflessness from a young age. His infectious smile and kind heart were hallmarks of his character, setting the stage for a life dedicated to helping others.

As a child, Welles found joy in sports like lacrosse and soccer, but his true passion lay in volunteering at the local fire department. This early commitment to community service would shape his future in profound ways.

Volunteer Work and Mentorship

Throughout his high school and college years, Welles continued to demonstrate his dedication to service. He volunteered with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, providing guidance and support to younger children in need of mentorship. During summers, he worked as a counselor at Camp Happy Valley, where he could further nurture and inspire young campers.

• Volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters
• Worked as a summer camp counselor
• Continued volunteering at the fire department

Despite pursuing a degree in finance and harboring dreams of a Wall Street career, Welles never lost sight of his true calling: helping people in need.

The Red Bandana: A Symbol of Identity and Purpose

The red bandana that would later become Welles Crowther’s iconic trademark had its origins in his youth. As a young lacrosse player, Welles adopted the vibrant accessory, wearing it under his helmet during games and practices. This simple piece of fabric became a constant companion, accompanying him on hikes, climbs, and various adventures throughout his life.

The Significance of the Red Bandana

Why did the red bandana hold such importance for Welles Crowther? The bandana served multiple purposes:

1. A reminder of his humble roots
2. A connection to his youthful passion for lacrosse
3. A symbol of his spirit of service
4. A grounding force in the fast-paced world of finance

By 2001, at the age of 24, the red bandana had become Welles’s signature look. Friends, family, and coworkers recognized it as a sure sign of his presence, whether peeking out of a pocket or wrapped around his neck.

From Finance to Heroism: Welles Crowther’s Journey to the World Trade Center

After graduating from Boston College in 1999, Welles Crowther achieved his dream of working in finance. He secured a position as an equities trader at Sandler O’Neill & Partners, located on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. This marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his life, but little did he know that his true calling awaited him.

Balancing Career and Passion

How did Welles maintain his commitment to service while pursuing a career in finance? Despite the demands of his job, Welles found ways to stay true to his passion for helping others:

• Continued volunteering on weekends
• Explored nature through hiking and climbing
• Kept his red bandana as a constant reminder of his values

This balance between professional ambition and personal conviction would ultimately prepare Welles for the extraordinary events that were to unfold on September 11, 2001.

September 11, 2001: The Day That Changed Everything

On the morning of September 11, 2001, Welles Crowther arrived at work in the South Tower of the World Trade Center, expecting nothing more than a routine day. However, fate had other plans, and Welles would soon be called upon to demonstrate extraordinary courage and selflessness.

The Moment of Impact

At 8:46 am, American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower, just six floors above Welles’s office. In an instant, the ordinary workday transformed into a scene of chaos and terror. How did Welles respond to this sudden crisis?

While many around him froze in shock and fear, Welles immediately sprang into action. His training as a volunteer firefighter and EMT kicked in, and he began to focus on helping others evacuate the building.

A Beacon of Hope: Welles Crowther’s Heroic Actions

As the situation in the World Trade Center deteriorated, Welles Crowther’s true character shone through. Instead of focusing solely on his own escape, he made the courageous decision to turn back and help others who were trapped or injured.

Guiding Survivors to Safety

What specific actions did Welles take to save lives on September 11? Eyewitness accounts and survivor testimonies paint a picture of extraordinary heroism:

• Helped evacuate dozens of colleagues from the South Tower
• Returned to higher floors to assist more people
• Guided injured survivors through smoke-filled stairwells
• Provided calm reassurance amidst the chaos

One survivor, Ling Young, recalled how Welles found her on the 78th-floor sky lobby, paralyzed by fear and injuries. Despite the collapsing ceiling and raging fires, he calmly encouraged Young and several others to follow him to safety.

The Red Bandana: A Symbol of Hope

Throughout his rescue efforts, Welles’s red bandana served as a beacon of hope for those he was helping. In the darkness and smoke, the flash of crimson fabric became a guide for injured survivors, leading them towards safety.

Survivors consistently mentioned Welles’s calm demeanor, steady voice, and gentle encouragement. These qualities, combined with his signature red bandana, created a lasting image of heroism that would later help identify him and his actions.

The Ultimate Sacrifice: Welles Crowther’s Final Moments

Despite the immense danger, Welles Crowther continued his rescue efforts until the very end. His selfless actions saved at least a dozen lives, but tragically cost him his own. When the South Tower collapsed at 9:59 am, Welles was still inside, helping others to safety.

The Search for Answers

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Welles’s family was left with uncertainty about his final moments. How did they ultimately discover the truth about his heroic actions?

Months after the tragedy, Welles’s mother, Alison Crowther, saw a news article featuring survivor accounts from the South Tower. The descriptions of a mysterious man in a red bandana immediately resonated with her. This led to a process of piecing together Welles’s final hours through survivor testimonies and eyewitness accounts.

Confirming Welles’s Identity

The Crowther family’s search for answers culminated in a meeting with survivors who had been saved by the man in the red bandana. When shown a photo of Welles, these survivors confirmed that he was indeed their rescuer. This bittersweet revelation brought closure to the Crowther family and solidified Welles’s legacy as a true hero of 9/11.

The Lasting Impact: Welles Crowther’s Legacy of Heroism

Welles Crowther’s selfless actions on September 11, 2001, have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of people around the world. His story has become a symbol of the best of humanity in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Inspiring Future Generations

How has Welles Crowther’s legacy continued to inspire others? His story has been shared through various mediums:

• Books, including “The Red Bandanna” by Tom Rinaldi
• Documentaries and news features
• Educational programs in schools
• The annual Red Bandanna 5K run at Boston College

These initiatives ensure that Welles’s spirit of service and sacrifice continues to motivate and inspire people of all ages.

The Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust

In honor of their son’s memory, Welles’s parents established the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust. This organization aims to encourage and support young people who exemplify Welles’s character traits of courage, caring for others, and making a difference in the world.

The trust provides scholarships, supports youth programs, and promotes volunteerism, ensuring that Welles’s legacy of service lives on through future generations.

Lessons from the Man in the Red Bandana

Welles Crowther’s story offers profound lessons about courage, compassion, and the power of individual action. His life and final moments demonstrate how one person’s choices can have a ripple effect, touching countless lives and inspiring others to act with similar selflessness.

The Importance of Preparedness

What can we learn from Welles’s background as a volunteer firefighter? His training and experience undoubtedly played a crucial role in his ability to remain calm and take effective action during the crisis. This underscores the importance of acquiring life-saving skills and being prepared to help others in emergency situations.

The Power of Small Acts of Kindness

Welles’s life was characterized by consistent acts of service, from volunteering at the fire department to mentoring young campers. These seemingly small actions laid the foundation for his extraordinary heroism on September 11. It serves as a reminder that everyday kindness and service can prepare us for moments of great significance.

Living with Purpose

Perhaps the most powerful lesson from Welles Crowther’s story is the importance of living with purpose and staying true to one’s values. Despite pursuing a successful career in finance, Welles never lost sight of his passion for helping others. This dedication ultimately led him to make the ultimate sacrifice in service of those in need.

As we reflect on the legacy of the Man in the Red Bandana, we are challenged to consider how we can embody similar qualities of courage, compassion, and selflessness in our own lives. Welles Crowther’s story serves as a timeless reminder of the profound impact one individual can have when they choose to put others before themselves.

Welles Crowther was an ordinary young man with an extraordinary spirit of selflessness and courage. Though he dreamed of a career in finance, his true passion was helping others in need. This passion ultimately led him to make the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001.

The Man Who Loved Helping Others

Raised in Upper Nyack, New York, Welles was known for his infectious smile and kind heart from a young age. As a child, he loved playing lacrosse and soccer, but what he enjoyed most was volunteering at the local fire department. Welles found fulfillment in helping others, whether by responding to fire calls or shoveling snow for elderly neighbors.

In high school and college, Welles continued to demonstrate his dedication to service. He volunteered with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and spent his summers as a counselor at Camp Happy Valley, where he could mentor and guide younger campers. Though he studied finance and had dreams of working on Wall Street, Welles’s true passion was helping people.

Welles Crowther’s Dream to Work in Finance

After graduating from Boston College in 1999, Welles landed a job as an equities trader at Sandler O’Neill & Partners on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. He was thrilled to embark on a successful career in finance.

On the surface, Welles was living the fast-paced life of a young professional in New York City. But he still made time for his true passion. On weekends, he would escape the skyscrapers and concrete jungle to hike mountains and cliffs, always carrying a red bandana in his back pocket. The bandana was a beloved memento from his childhood.

His Love for Lacrosse and the Red Bandana

As a young lacrosse player, Welles adopted the red bandana as his signature accessory. He wore it under his helmet during games and practices. The bright crimson bandana became a part of Welles, highlighting his vibrant spirit and competitive drive.

As Welles grew older, the red bandana remained a constant companion on hikes, climbs, and any adventures. Tying it around his neck, he found comfort in this simple reminder of his humble roots and youthful passion for lacrosse.

The Bandana Becomes His Trademark Accessory

By 2001, Welles was 24 years old and the red bandana had become his trademark look. Friends, family, and coworkers knew if they caught a glimpse of crimson fabric peeking out of a pocket or wrapped around his neck, Welles was there.

Beyond a fashion statement, the red bandana represented Welles’s spirit of service. Having moved to bustling New York City to pursue finance, he clung to his small-town roots by keeping the bandana close. This humble piece of fabric kept Welles grounded in what mattered most: helping others.

A Normal Day That Quickly Turned Tragic

On the morning of September 11, 2001, Welles arrived at work like any other day. He greeted his colleagues with a smile and settled in for a routine day at his desk. Meanwhile, airplanes were being hijacked just miles away as part of a coordinated terrorist attack.

At 8:46 am, Welles’s ordinary morning exploded into chaos when American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower just six floors above him. He immediately sprang into action while others froze in shock and fear.

The Attacks on the World Trade Center on 9/11

As black smoke billowed from the North Tower and papers rained down on the streets of Lower Manhattan, Welles Crowther calmly began helping evacuate his colleagues in the South Tower. After ushering dozens to safety, he turned around and headed back up the stairs as others scrambled down.

Welles had passed firefighters heading up the stairs and recalled his training as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. He knew people were trapped above the impact zones and needed help. So while thousands focused on their own escape, Welles purposefully ran deeper into danger.

Crowther Selflessly Helps Others Escape

Back on the 78th floor sky lobby, Welles came across a woman named Ling Young who was paralyzed by fear and injuries. Though the ceiling was collapsing and fires raged, he calmly encouraged Young and several others to follow him to the 61st floor stairwell. One survivor said Welles’ steady voice provided reassurance amidst the chaos.

For hours, Welles navigated badly burned survivors down pitch-black stairwells filled with smoke and debris. His red bandana created a beacon of hope, a flash of color in the darkness guiding the injured downward. Those he saved recalled his cool confidence, steadfast calm, and gentle encouragement.

His Heroic Efforts Save Many Lives

Because of Welles Crowther’s selfless efforts, at least a dozen people were able to escape from floors high in the South Tower. Despite no training as an emergency responder, Welles single-handedly created order from chaos and saved lives.

Survivors remember a guardian angel materializing out of the smoke, his red bandana pulled over his mouth and nose. With no regard for his own safety, Welles turned back again and again, carrying survivors on his broad shoulders when they could not walk.

Crowther Makes the Ultimate Sacrifice

Just before the South Tower collapsed at 9:59 am, firefighters heard Welles’ calm voice over their radios, calling for additional rescue equipment. He likely saved lives up until the final moments.

When Welles’ family members saw photos of a figure in a red bandana helping people out of the burning towers, they knew in their hearts it was him. Though his body was never found, Welles left behind a legacy of courage, sacrifice, and hope.

Piecing Together the Mystery of the Red Bandana Man

In the aftermath of 9/11, Welles’ family was contacted by survivors who shared stories of the “man in the red bandana” who saved their lives. Slowly, details emerged about this mysterious hero’s actions.

One survivor recalled a tall man with a red piece of fabric around his neck lifting her up and safely carrying her down narrow stairs. Others described a good Samaritan appearing out of nowhere to lead them through thick smoke to an open stairwell.

These stories painted a picture of Welles single-handedly rescuing dozens from certain death. His family had no doubt the man in the red bandana was Welles, their beloved son and brother.

Crowther’s Family Learns of His Heroism

After connecting with survivors in the aftermath of 9/11, Welles’ family gained a deeper appreciation for his secret life as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. This training gave him the skills and courage to run into the towers while others ran out.

They also realized that the red bandana that accompanied Welles everywhere served a greater purpose that day. It became a beacon through the chaos, guiding the lost to safety. Welles used his greatest gifts – his selflessness and courage – to save others.

His Legacy Inspires Others to Give Back

Welles Crowther’s story of profound heroism inspired people across the country to live more meaningful lives in service to others. Nonprofits were founded in his name to continue his legacy through charitable programs supporting education and community service.

Every year on 9/11, people are encouraged to wear red bandanas to remember Welles and all of the lives lost and changed that day. His selfless acts in the face of incredible danger continue to inspire us to become the best versions of ourselves.

The Red Bandana Symbolizes Strength and Unity

In the wake of incredible tragedy, Welles’ red bandana became a unifying symbol of hope. For those he rescued, the bright crimson fabric represented the light guiding them to safety amidst unimaginable darkness.

Today, the red bandana reminds us to pull together and lift up those around us in trying times. It represents the strength of the human spirit and our shared capacity for great courage in the face of fear.

Colleges Memorialize Crowther and His Red Bandana

Many colleges, especially Boston College where Welles played lacrosse, honor him annually by giving students red bandanas on 9/11. Welles wore his bandana during lacrosse games, so this tribute has special significance.

Athletic teams now wear special uniforms showcasing red bandana prints. This keeps the memory of Welles’s heroism alive and inspires young athletes to emulate his courage and determination.

Though Welles Crowther’s story ended too soon, his legacy continues today through those he inspired. His selfless sacrifice 17 years ago continues to remind us that ordinary people are capable of extraordinary courage, hope, and resilience even in the darkest of days.

Growing up, Welles Crowther demonstrated a strong spirit of compassion and selflessness through his involvement in community service activities. However, as a young adult, Welles also dreamed of success in the high-powered world of finance and business.

Welles Crowther’s Dream to Work in Finance

During his college years at Boston College, Welles majored in economics and became fascinated by finance and investments. He was known among friends as having a brilliant analytical mind and passion for numbers.

After graduating in 1999, Welles eagerly accepted a position as an equities trader at Sandler O’Neill & Partners, located on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. This job represented the culmination of years of hard work and ambition.

In this fast-paced role, Welles had to make quick analytical decisions while juggling millions of dollars each day. He thrived on the high-stress environment and excelled at his job. Coworkers described Welles as cool under pressure and able to focus intently amidst the trading floor chaos.

Though Welles loved the adrenaline rush of finance, he remained grounded through activities like weekend hiking trips. His red bandana was a reminder to keep perspective despite his rapid success.

The Morning of September 11th

On the morning of September 11, 2001, Welles arrived at the World Trade Center excited for a typical busy day of intense trading. He greeted coworkers with his signature smile, grabbed some coffee, and settled in at his desk before the markets opened.

But Welles’s ordinary morning was shattered at 8:46am when hijackers crashed American Airlines Flight 11 into the North Tower just six floors above Welles’s desk. He immediately jumped into action while others around him froze.

Welles left behind his finance dreams in that moment, realizing there were people urgently needing help. He wouldn’t hesitate to use his strength and training to save lives, even if it meant risking his own.

While the world remembers Welles as a hero, we also honor his modest roots and early ambitions. His courageous sacrifice on 9/11 was possible because of the person he was – an ordinary man and loyal friend driven by his selfless spirit.

Though Welles didn’t get the long career in finance he had dreamed of, he found a different purpose that harrowing day. His inspiring legacy of compassion and bravery continues impacting lives 17 years later.

Long before Welles Crowther became known as the “man in the red bandana” on 9/11, he had a deep love for the sport of lacrosse. The red bandana was an integral part of his lacrosse uniform and personal identity from a young age.

His Love for Lacrosse and the Red Bandana

Welles first started playing lacrosse around age 10 in his hometown of Upper Nyack, NY. He immediately took to the fast-paced, high-intensity sport. Welles played midfield, requiring equal parts offensive skill and defensive grit.

He adopted the red bandana as part of his uniform, wearing it under his helmet during games. The bright crimson fabric stood out and became Welles’s signature style. Teammates and opponents alike could spot the red bandana and know Welles was giving his all.

The bandana symbolized Welles’s passion for lacrosse and competitive drive to excel. Though just a piece of cloth, it took on deeper meaning, representing his tireless work ethic and relentless pursuit of victory.

The Red Bandana: From Lacrosse to Everyday Life

As Welles continued playing lacrosse through high school and college, the red bandana remained an integral part of his identity on and off the field. He wore it to practices and on hiking or climbing adventures.

Long after hanging up his lacrosse stick after college, Welles kept the red bandana close. It connected him to cherished memories of youthful camaraderie and reminded him to maintain his active, competitive spirit.

In his final moments on 9/11, Welles used the bandana he loved to help others, transforming it into an improvised respirator. The red bandana’s original meaning came full circle.

Honoring Welles Crowther’s Lacrosse Legacy

After 9/11, Boston College honored Welles by giving out red bandanas to students on the anniversary. Lacrosse teams now wear special uniforms with red bandana prints.

These tributes keep Welles’s indomitable lacrosse spirit alive. Young players are inspired by how he transformed his beloved bandana into an instrument of courage and hope when it mattered most.

Long after his playing days ended, Welles Crowther’s red bandana enabled him to give life-saving aid to others. His selfless actions honored the true spirit of lacrosse – using one’s competitive fire to lift up those around you.

The red bandana will live on as a symbol of the human capacity for courage and compassion in the darkest of times.

The Bandana Becomes His Trademark Accessory

It was an ordinary Tuesday morning in New York City on September 11, 2001. Commuters bustled to work, sipping their morning coffees and reading the newspaper headlines. But at 8:46 AM, everything changed in an instant. American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center, leaving a gaping hole and spewing flames and smoke. People stared in shock and horror. Some fled the buildings while others rushed to help. No one knew at the time that this was only the first attack in a series of coordinated terrorist attacks that would become known as 9/11.

Inside the South Tower, the offices of investment bank Sandler O’Neill & Partners were filling with smoke. A team of partners shepherded their employees to safety, making sure everyone evacuated the building. Partner Joe Holland was assisting in the rescue efforts when he saw fellow partner Welles Crowther disappear back upstairs. Joe assumed Welles had gone to get his beloved red bandana, a signature accessory he always carried with him. But instead of coming back down immediately, Welles ascended all the way up to the impact zone on the 78th floor to help others escape.

With his red bandana covering his nose and mouth, Welles helped lead groups of people from the smokey upper floors down the stairwells to safety. He carried one injured woman on his back, reassuring her and others along the way. “Don’t worry, you’re going to be fine,” he told one group. Over and over he went back up to find more people, risking his own life again and again. Thanks to his heroics, dozens made it out alive who otherwise may not have. Wells “saved a lot of lives,” one survivor recounted. “He was an absolute hero.”

Tragically, Welles did not make it out himself. His body was later recovered in the rubble of the South Tower along with his cherished red bandana. He was just 24 years old. Though they did not know at the time, Welles’ selfless actions would make him an enduring symbol of courage and hope amidst the tragedy of 9/11.

Welles Crowther was born in New York and grew up in Upper Nyack, New York. As a child he always carried a red bandana in his back pocket, a beloved idiosyncracy. He played lacrosse and was known for his tenaciousness on the field. He later attended Boston College, where he became an honorary member of the lacrosse team and graduated with a degree in economics. After graduation, he landed a job as an equities trader at Sandler O’Neill & Partners on the 104th floor of the South Tower.

But Welles was so much more than his work. He was known for his infectious smile, kindness, intelligence and generosity of spirit. On weekends he volunteered as a firefighter in Upper Nyack. He always carried his red bandana to wipe soot from his face after drills. Friends recall Welles frequently giving the shirts off his back to homeless people he encountered on the street. His selfless spirit and courage were on full display on 9/11.

In the months after the attacks, Welles’ family was approached by survivors who shared stories of his inspirational heroism. His mother Alison began asking around about the mysterious man in the red bandana who saved so many lives. Slowly the pieces came together, and Alison realized it was her own beloved son.

Welles and his red bandana became icons of 9/11. In 2014, President Obama honored Welles posthumously with the “Bravery and Sacrifice Award” for his life-saving actions. On every anniversary of 9/11, tributes are held honoring Welles as an embodiment of courage. A scholarship fund was established in his name, and a 5K race is held annually in his hometown. His story is told in a bestselling children’s book, a documentary, and a book titled The Red Bandanna: A Life, A Choice, A Legacy.

Though his life was cut short, Welles’ legacy lives on. His story serves as a timeless reminder that one person really can make a tremendous difference. In times of darkness, let the light shine through. Be more like Welles Crowther – carry others through crises with compassion, bravery and hope.

A Normal Day That Quickly Turned Tragic

September 11th, 2001 started off like any other day in New York City. People hurried to work with their coffees in hand, subways rumbled underground, and the bustling metropolis hummed with activity. But in an instant, everything changed. At 8:46 AM on that crisp, clear Tuesday morning, American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Billowing flames and thick black smoke poured from the gaping hole in the building. Shock and disbelief rippled through the crowds below. This was only the first tragic strike in a series of coordinated attacks that would become known as 9/11.

While many fled from the scene in terror, brave souls ran into the burning buildings to help. One such hero was 24-year-old Welles Crowther, an equities trader who worked on the South Tower’s 104th floor. As smoke filled the stairwells, Welles ushered frightened employees to safety, reassuring them as he led them down. Before exiting himself, he ran back to his office to retrieve his signature red bandana – a beloved accessory he carried everywhere. Little did anyone know, this red bandana would make Welles a standout symbol of courage on one of America’s darkest days.

With his face covered in the red bandana, Welles ascended back into the smoldering Tower, heading up to the 78th floor sky lobby. There he encountered a horrifying scene – scores of injured and disoriented people unable to find a clear path out. Without hesitation, Welles took charge, escorting groups down stairwell after stairwell despite the smoke and flames. He carried one woman down 17 flights on his back, calming her fears with comforting words. Over and over he went back up, saving countless lives.

Survivors remember Welles’ red bandana, bravery and selflessness. “He’s definitely one of the biggest reasons I’m alive today,” said one man Welles rescued. Tragically, Welles ultimately sacrificed his own life while saving so many others. His body was later recovered along with his beloved red bandana, which he wore until the very end. He was just 24 years old.

In the aftermath of 9/11, stories emerged about the mysterious hero in the red bandana who shepherded so many to safety. Welles’ family soon realized it was their own son and brother who had displayed such courage and valor that terrible day. Though the loss was immeasurable, they found solace knowing Welles died as he lived – with compassion, fearlessness and hope.

Welles and his red bandana became iconic symbols reflecting the best of humanity amidst the horror of 9/11. This young man in a simple red cotton kerchief selflessly risked everything for others. An annual 5K race was established in Welles’ hometown, and a scholarship fund carries on his memory. His alma mater Boston College presents the ‘Welles Crowther Red Bandana Award’ to exceptional graduates each year. Numerous books and films document Welles’ inspirational story of bravery.

On every 9/11 anniversary, tributes honor Welles as a testament to the power of one person to change lives. President Obama recognized him with the ‘Bravery and Sacrifice Award’ in 2014. Though gone too soon, Welles’ legacy shines bright, reminding us that even in times of fear and chaos, kindness and courage will prevail.

So every year on September 11th, people remember the man in the red bandana who saved lives with his quick thinking, compassion and unmatched bravery. Let Welles’ story inspire us to summon our own inner hero when faced with crises big and small. Find strength in his sacrifice, and have the courage to lead others from darkness into light.

The Attacks on the World Trade Center on 9/11

September 11, 2001 started out as a clear, sunny morning in New York City. But at 8:46 AM, everything changed in an instant. American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center, tearing a massive hole in the building and sending flames and black smoke into the sky. People gaped in shock and horror below. This was only the first of four coordinated terrorist attacks that would come to be known as 9/11.

At 9:03 AM, United Airlines Flight 175 struck the South Tower near the 60th floor. Both towers blazed out of control, thick plumes of smoke obscuring the tops of the buildings. Frightened employees and visitors streamed out of the towers and surrounding buildings, not knowing if there were more attacks to come. First responders raced to the scene, including firefighters like 24-year-old Welles Crowther, who had rushed in to help despite the danger.

Inside the South Tower, Welles assisted a group down overcrowded stairwells, encouraging them and calming their fears along the way. Before following them out, he returned to his 104th floor office to retrieve his beloved red bandana, a signature accessory he wore daily. But instead of evacuating, Welles turned around and climbed up to the 78th floor sky lobby, which was filled with injured and disoriented people unable to find their way out.

With his nose and mouth covered in his red bandana, Welles took charge, leading groups down the treacherous stairs past choking smoke and searing heat. He carried one woman down 17 flights on his back, reassuring her she was going to be okay. Over and over he ascended back into the inferno, saving as many lives as he could. Survivors remembered this brave young man in the red bandana who persisted through unimaginable conditions to rescue them.

Tragically, Welles sacrificed his own life while saving so many others. His body was later pulled from the rubble, his red bandana still tied around his face. Just 24 years old, Welles demonstrated incredible courage and selflessness that terrible day. His story of profound heroism emerged in the months following 9/11.

Honoring Welles, his family established a foundation supporting community organizations, and a 5K race keeps his memory alive in his hometown. His alma mater Boston College gives out the annual Welles Crowther Red Bandana Award to an exemplary graduate. Numerous books, films and tributes document Welles’ inspiring bravery on one of America’s darkest days. He became a symbol of the best of humanity amidst senseless tragedy.

Though two decades have passed, Welles’ legacy remains stronger than ever. On every 9/11 anniversary, he is remembered as a hero whose quick thinking and valiant sacrifice under the most harrowing circumstances saved at least a dozen lives. His red bandana became an iconic emblem indicating hope even in the darkest of times. Though gone too soon, Welles continues impacting lives, reminding us how much difference one committed person can make.

Crowther Selflessly Helps Others Escape

On the morning of September 11, 2001, hijacked airplanes crashed into both towers of the World Trade Center in a series of coordinated terrorist attacks. Fires raged out of control, thick black smoke billowing from the towers. People fled in fear and panic as first responders rushed into the scene. One incredibly brave soul was 24-year-old Welles Crowther, who had raced downtown to help despite the obvious dangers.

Amidst the chaos and confusion, Welles assisted a group down crowded, smoky stairwells in the South Tower, where he worked as an equities trader. Before evacuating himself, he made a quick stop at his 104th floor office to grab his beloved red bandana, which he always carried with him. But instead of heading out to safety, Welles turned around and climbed up to the building’s 78th floor sky lobby.

There he encountered a heartbreaking scene – numerous injured and disoriented people unable to navigate their way out through the smoke-filled halls and stairs. Without hesitation, Welles took charge, leading them down the treacherous descent past flaming debris and searing heat. He wrapped his red bandana around his face to filter out smoke and fumes.

Again and again, Welles ascended into the tower to rescue more victims. He carried one woman down 17 agonizing flights on his back, calming her fears by saying “Don’t worry, we’re going to get out of here.” He continued going back up, saving as many lives as he could. Survivors remembered this brave young man with a red bandana who persisted through horrifying conditions to selflessly rescue them.

Tragically, Welles was never able to make it out himself. His body was later pulled from the rubble, his red bandana covering his nose and mouth even in death. Just 24 years old, he made the ultimate sacrifice while saving dozens of lives that terrible day. His profound courage and humanity in the face of unspeakable terror would make him an enduring symbol of hope.

In the aftermath of 9/11, Welles’ story emerged as family members learned how he spent his final moments saving others. Honoring his memory, they established a foundation supporting community service, and an annual 5K keeps his spirit alive in his hometown. His former college gives out the Welles Crowther Red Bandana Award to an exemplary graduate each year.

Numerous books, films and tributes have documented Welles’ remarkable heroism at the World Trade Center. He demonstrated how even in the midst of chaos and devastation, goodness and selflessness can prevail. Though nearly two decades have passed, his legacy remains stronger than ever.

On every anniversary of 9/11, Welles is remembered as the inspirational young man in the red bandana who rescued dozens from certain death that fateful day. His courage and sacrifice remind us of how much one committed individual can change lives even under the most challenging circumstances. Though gone too soon, Welles’ uplifting story continues impacting people across the nation and world.

His Heroic Efforts Save Many Lives

On the bright, blue morning of September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked airplanes and crashed them into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. Fires erupted, engulfing the upper floors of both buildings in flames and billowing black smoke. Fear and panic gripped the area as people fled for safety, even as brave first responders raced into the chaos.

24-year-old Welles Crowther was working as an equities trader on the South Tower’s 104th floor when the attacks began. As the situation deteriorated, he shepherded frightened coworkers down crowded stairwells clouded with smoke. Before exiting himself, Welles quickly grabbed his beloved red bandana, which he always carried with him. But instead of seeking safety, Welles turned around and headed back up to the 78th floor sky lobby.

There he found injured and disoriented people unable to find an escape route through the ruined hallways and smoke-filled stairs. Without hesitating, Welles took charge, leading them down the treacherous steps past searing heat and flaming debris. He wrapped his red bandana around his face to filter the toxic air.

Over and over Welles ascended back into the tower, guiding more victims downstairs with calm reassurance. He even carried one woman down 17 agonizing flights on his back. Though conditions deteriorated by the minute, Welles persisted in his lifesaving efforts. Survivors recalled this brave young man in the red bandana who led them to safety when all seemed lost.

Tragically, Welles ultimately gave his own life while rescuing others. His body was later recovered from the rubble, his red bandana still tied around his nose and mouth. Just 24 years old, he made the ultimate sacrifice on one of America’s darkest days. News of his profound heroism and selflessness quickly spread.

Honoring their son’s memory, Welles’ family established a foundation funding community service initiatives. His former college presents the annual Welles Crowther Red Bandana Award to an exemplary graduate. Numerous books, films and tributes document his remarkable valor that terrible day.

Though decades have passed, Welles’ legacy remains stronger than ever. His red bandana has become an iconic symbol of hope and courage in the face of tragedy. On every 9/11 anniversary, he is remembered for his lifesaving bravery when so many needed a hero. His story serves as an enduring testament to how one dedicated individual can change lives through selfless sacrifice.

Crowther Makes the Ultimate Sacrifice

On the fateful morning of September 11, 2001, amidst the chaos and terror of the attacks on the World Trade Center, one young man’s selfless actions stood out as a remarkable beacon of hope and heroism. Wearing a red bandana around his neck, 24-year-old Welles Crowther repeatedly rushed back into the South Tower to rescue trapped and injured people, saving at least a dozen lives before the tower collapsed, taking his own life. His inspirational story of sacrifice and bravery continues to uplift and motivate people even decades later.

Welles was an equities trader working on the 104th floor of the South Tower when the first plane struck the North Tower at 8:46am. As his floor filled with smoke, he helped direct his coworkers to start evacuating down the stairwell. Then, instead of fleeing to safety with everyone else, Welles made the courageous decision to go back up the stairs and help other people escape.

Using his red bandana as a protective mask against the smoke, Welles tirelessly searched floor after floor, helping disoriented and injured people get to the stairwells. He carried one woman down 17 flights of stairs on his back. He made multiple trips up and down the stairs, going back again and again despite the danger as the building burned and shook around him.

Survivors recall a tall man with a red bandana appearing out of the smoke like an angel, guiding them to safety and calming panicked people with reassurances that they were going to be okay. He told them his name was Welles and urged them not to stop moving, knowing their only hope was getting out of the building as quickly as possible.

In his final trip up the stairs, Welles rescued several more people trapped on the floors high up in the South Tower. That’s where he was last seen by survivors, still climbing upward just minutes before the tower collapsed at 9:59am. His selfless actions in the face of incredible danger saved at least a dozen lives that day.

In the aftermath of 9/11, Welles’s family was deeply mourning his loss without knowing the full details of his heroism. Survivors shared stories with the media about the mysterious rescuer in the red bandana, but his identity remained unknown for several years.

Then in 2005, Welles’s mother Alison met a survivor who described being carried to safety on the back of a good-looking young man with a red bandana. Hearing these details, Alison knew without a doubt it was her beloved son Welles. She learned he used his red bandana that day in honor of his father, who carried a red handkerchief and told Welles to use it to help people someday.

Welles’s incredible story of bravery and sacrifice inspired Alison Crowther to establish the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust to support programs recognizing selfless heroism. She also wrote a book titled The Man in the Red Bandana about her son’s remarkable life and courageous actions on 9/11 when he gave his life to save others.

Welles’ alma mater Boston College gives an annual award in his name to outstanding student heroes. The Welles Remy Crowther Red Bandana Run held in New York City each September raises funds for his charity while keeping alive the memory of his inspirational heroism. Across the nation, Welles’s story brings hope and shows the power of courage in even the darkest moments.

Nearly two decades later, Welles’s red bandana has become an enduring symbol of hope, bravery and sacrifice. His incredible determination to save others despite impossible odds exemplifies the best of humanity. His legacy continues to uplift and inspire people to find strength in adversity and to help one another in times of greatest need.

On that devastating day when terror rained down, one young man armed with nothing more than a red bandana and unmatched courage chose to run towards danger to help others. Welles Crowther gave his life so that others might live – a selfless act of heroism that will never be forgotten.

Piecing Together the Mystery of the Red Bandana Man

On September 11, 2001, stories emerged from survivors fleeing the collapsing South Tower of the World Trade Center about a young man in a red bandana who had saved many lives. For several years, no one knew who this anonymous hero was – only that his selfless actions inspired hope during a time of unbelievable tragedy.

In the chaotic aftermath of 9/11, tales spread amongst survivors about an angelic figure wearing a red bandana around his neck who appeared out of the smoke to guide terrified office workers to safety. Though no one knew his name, many owed their lives to this mysterious rescuer who made multiple trips into the burning South Tower to lead people out.

Some recalled him carrying a woman down 17 flights of stairs on his back when her mobility was impaired by severe asthma. Others described him clearing debris to create a path to the stairwells, and giving people his red bandana to filter out smoke. He calmly directed the panicked and disoriented, urging them to keep moving despite the mayhem around them.

Who was this remarkably brave and selfless man willing to risk his own life to save total strangers? In the chaos of 9/11’s aftermath, no one could piece together his identity. The bandana-wearing hero remained an anonymous symbol of hope and courage amidst the tragedy.

In 2003, his family began to unravel the mystery after his mother Alison met a survivor rescued by a man with a red bandana. Hearing how he carried her down the stairs, Alison knew in her heart it was her son Welles. She remembered his father always carried a red handkerchief, with a wish that Welles would use it one day to help people.

Gradually, Welles’ selfless heroism that tragic day came into focus. A star lacrosse player at Boston College, Welles worked on the 104th floor of the South Tower as an equities trader at Sandler O’Neill. When the first plane hit the North Tower at 8:46am, Welles helped evacuate his coworkers before making the brave decision to head upstairs to rescue more people.

Wearing his red bandana to shield him from smoke, Welles took multiple trips up the stairs despite growing danger, saving at least a dozen lives. He was last seen ascending to look for more people just before the South Tower collapsed at 9:59am, taking the life of the hero in the red bandana.

Identifying him resolved part of the mystery, but questions remained about what drove this 24-year-old man to take such extraordinary risks for strangers. Those who knew Welles best say it was just in his nature to help others.

As a child, Welles pulled over on busy highways to assist broken-down drivers. In college, he snuck out late at night with friends to shovel snow off locals’ driveways. Big-hearted and deeply devoted to service, Welles acted on an instinct to help people in need, even at his own peril.

In learning of his heroics, Welles’s family gained comfort knowing his death meant saving others. His inspiring story motivated his mother Alison to establish a foundation promoting youth volunteer service in his name. She also published a book titled The Man in the Red Bandana to honor Welles’ inspirational life of generosity.

Red bandanas became a symbol of Welles’ fearless compassion. He showed the world that in times of devastation and terror, humanity triumphs when people help one another. Though his identity was a mystery for several years after 9/11, the unknown hero’s story touched the hearts of many.

Nearly two decades later, Welles’ selflessness on one of America’s darkest days still resonates as an example of courage and sacrifice. By piecing together the fragments of his heroism, we gain perspective on what it means to live with compassion. His legacy inspires everyday people to summon unexpected reserves of bravery and give of themselves for the welfare of others.

The chaos and devastation of 9/11 left many mysteries, including the identity of the red bandana man. But from tragedy rose stories of hope, embodied by Welles Crowther. Though he gave his life while saving others, his legend lives on through acts of service that create hope from despair, and light from darkness.

Crowther’s Family Learns of His Heroism

In the traumatic aftermath of 9/11, Welles Crowther’s family was reeling from the devastating loss of their beloved son and brother. Unbeknownst to them, Welles had perished while saving countless lives as the mysterious hero in the red bandana inside the South Tower.

On that terrible day, 24-year-old Welles was working as an equities trader on the 104th floor when the first plane struck. As the situation deteriorated, he helped evacuate his coworkers before making the selfless decision to head back up into the tower to rescue more people trapped by the smoke and flames.

Armed only with a red bandana his father had given him, Welles repeatedly ascended the South Tower stairs despite the growing inferno. He carried injured people on his back, cleared obstacles, and guided the lost and disoriented to safety. He made trip after trip, saving at least a dozen lives before the tower collapsed, killing him too.

In the anguish of their sudden loss, Welles’s family knew none of these details. They were focused only on mourning their son, brother, and cousin who had perished so unexpectedly. It would be several years before glimmers of Welles’s astonishing heroism began to surface.

In 2003, Welles’s mother Alison attended a survivor gathering where she met a woman who shared an incredible story. She recalled being carried down 17 flights of stairs by a young man wearing a red bandana. When Alison heard this, she knew without a doubt it was her beloved son Welles.

Gradually more accounts emerged about the man in the red bandana who rescued people in the South Tower. Piecing them together, Alison and Welles’s sister Honor gained clear insight into their lost loved one’s astonishing bravery and sacrifice for others.

They learned that Welles used his red bandana to shield people from smoke and debris. He dispensed water he found, and moistened his bandana to help trapped people breathe. Despite the chaos and his own mortality, he radiated a calm assurance that kept others focused on escaping.

Knowing these details helped Welles’s family find meaning in their anguish. They took pride in how this exceptional young man had saved so many lives through his selfless actions. The bandana that was once an object of grief became a symbol of hope.

Motivated by Welles’s heroism, his mother Alison established the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust to recognize acts of bravery. She also wrote a book titled The Man in the Red Bandana about his life and inspiring sacrifice on 9/11. His sisters carried on his memory by honoring civic-minded college students with the Welles Remy Crowther Red Bandana Award.

Nearly two decades later, Welles’s example of courage and compassion when people needed it most still empowers and motivates others. His family transformed their grief into good works upholding his legacy. In the process, they ensured that this noble young man in the red bandana would be remembered not just as a victim, but a hero.

Welles gave his life on 9/11 so others might have a chance to live. In learning the full story of their son and brother’s astonishing bravery, his family gained comfort and inspiration in the midst of loss. Their pride in Welles’s unrelenting sacrifice reminds us that even on humanity’s darkest days, light still shines through acts of selfless goodwill towards others.

His Legacy Inspires Others to Give Back

Although his life was cut short on 9/11, Welles Crowther’s remarkable heroism and self-sacrifice sparked an enduring legacy that continues to motivate others to embrace community service and giving back. Through charitable foundations established in his name, Welles inspires young people to help others, keeping his memory alive.

Just 24 years old when he perished saving lives in the South Tower, Welles left behind a legacy beyond his years. His courage and compassion showed the depths of human decency possible even in the darkest moments. Two decades later, his story still empowers people to summon their best selves in service of others.

Deeply influenced by Welles’s inspirational heroism, his mother Alison Crowther founded the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust to recognize and support youth volunteerism. This foundation gives grants to nonprofits that engage young people in impactful service opportunities honoring Welles’s spirit of selflessness.

Moved by her son’s supreme sacrifice, Alison found meaning in promoting the ideals that Welles embodied. By supporting youth community engagement through the trust, his legacy is kept alive while creating new generations of socially-minded leaders.

Welles’s selfless deeds also inspired the creation of the Red Bandana Award at his alma mater Boston College. This honor goes to students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, civic engagement achievements, and commitment to the betterment of society.

Recipients of the Red Bandana Award are everyday student heroes who lead food drives, advocate for social justice, volunteer at nonprofits, and otherwise exemplify Welles’s passionate ethic of service to others. They uphold his legacy through their own acts of compassion and bravery.

In addition to foundations bearing his name, Welles’s memory lives on through an annual 5K race hosted by his hometown of Nyack, NY. The Welles Remy Crowther Red Bandana Run draws thousands of participants each September. Proceeds from the race support grants for community organizations through the charitable trust.

During this inspiring event, runners wear red bandanas in tribute to Welles’s courage and sacrifice. The community comes together to honor a genuine hometown hero while raising funds to fuel good works upholding his enduring legacy.

Nearly two decades after his passing, Welles’s story still touches hearts and calls citizens to action. By selflessly giving his life for others, he demonstrated humanity’s capacity for boundless compassion. His family and community keep his uplifting spirit alive through charitable efforts that empower youth volunteer service.

Welles Remy Crowther represents the best in all of us – the innate desire to help and care for others. Though his name was once shrouded in mystery, he showed that one person’s sacrifice can inspire many more acts of bravery and goodness. His legacy continues to make the world a little more hopeful, humane and just.

On the darkest days, Welles’s example shines as a timeless reminder that light still flickers inside even when circumstances seem desperate. By honoring his fearless service through their own, young people today ensure that the man in the red bandana is not forgotten. His memory and mission live on through them.

The Red Bandana Symbolizes Strength and Unity

In the wake of 9/11, a simple red bandana became a powerful symbol of hope, bravery and unity thanks to Welles Crowther, the mysterious man in the red bandana who sacrificed himself to save others that day. His red bandana and fearless compassion remind us that even in the darkest moments, we are stronger when we come together.

Amidst smoke, chaos and devastation, Welles appeared like an angel guiding survivors to safety down crowded stairwells. Using his red bandana to shield his face, he led groups of frightened office workers to evacuation routes, despite deteriorating conditions in the burning South Tower.

Though they did not know his name, those saved by Welles that day recalled a tall man with a red bandana selflessly leading people to rescue. His bandana stood out as a vivid symbol of hope and courage when they needed it most. It marked him as a guardian angel protecting the helpless.

In subsequent years, as Welles’ valiant efforts became known, his iconic red bandana took on an even deeper meaning. This humble piece of fabric came to represent the strength of compassion and the very best of humanity in times of crisis.

Though the nation reeled from 9/11’s horrific destruction, Welles’ story uplifted people with its remarkable messages of courage, goodness, and our shared bonds as human beings. The man in the red bandana showed the world that even the smallest actions could have big impacts when done with love for others.

DevotedBoston College lacrosse fans began waving red bandanas at games in tribute to Welles, a former BC athlete. For them and many more Americans, the red bandana symbolized fearless service, kinship and national solidarity when people needed comfort most.

Annual 9/11 commemoration events saw red bandanas everywhere, honoring Welles’ sacrifice and the community spirit he represents. Simply yet powerfully, this little piece of cloth stood for lifesaving compassion between people – our capacity to lift up those around us.

In the years since his selfless heroism, the red bandana has continued to inspire unity and hope. Wellyn Remy Crowther Red Bandana runs are now held each September in New York and elsewhere to support charitable foundations established by his family to promote volunteerism.

At these uplifting events, participants wear red bandanas as they run to keep alive Welles Crowther’s powerful legacy of community service. His 9/11 heroism taught us that ordinary people could do extraordinary things for each other, even in devastating circumstances.

By bringing people together to honor Welles’ inspirational story of courage and sacrifice, the red bandana is woven into the fabric of 9/11 remembrances. It symbolizes kindness, duty and leadership rising up in difficult times – the light still shining in darkness through our unbreakable communal bonds.

Amidst the smoke and flames, Welles showed that human strength and decency endure when people stand together. Two decades later, his red bandana continues to represent the compassion that will always unite us.

Colleges Memorialize Crowther and His Red Bandana

Welles Crowther’s courageous sacrifice on 9/11 made him a legend at his alma maters, Boston College and Nyack High School. They memorialize this alumni hero through awards, scholarships and traditions celebrating his inspirational story.

When Welles perished at age 24 after saving numerous lives in the South Tower, his alma maters felt the tragedy deeply. They honored him as an exemplary young alumnus who embodied virtues like courage, leadership and service to others.

At Boston College where Welles played lacrosse, his red bandana became a symbol of a selfless spirit willing to risk all to help others. To memorialize him, BC established the Welles Crowther Red Bandana Award to recognize exceptional student leaders and change-makers who carry on his values.

Each year at a BC lacrosse game, a standout student receives the Red Bandana Award before a crowd of students and alumni. Many wave red bandanas, cheered by Welles’ story of fearless goodwill in the face of danger.

BC also renamed its lacrosse field the Welles Crowther Memorial Field, further cementing his athletic and personal legacy. A statue honoring him stands outside the field as a lasting tribute to his character and heroism.

At Welles’ high school alma mater Nyack High School, his red bandana is proudly displayed in a glass case honoring alumni. He is remembered as an outstanding student-athlete who went on to exemplify Nyack’s values of community service and leadership.

Nyack High holds an annual Red Bandana football game honoring Welles. Players wear red bandanas under their helmets, and proceeds from the game support a scholarship fund named for this distinguished alumnus.

In their school halls and on their fields, Welles’ indomitable spirit lives on through ceremonies honoring his supreme sacrifice. Awards in his name motivate new generations of students to lead lives of courage and service.

Both Boston College and Nyack High take immense pride in this alumni hero who showed the heights of human compassion. Though decades have passed, his stirring story remains a source of inspiration and hope.

Beyond his own alma maters, Welles’ legacy is honored through initiatives at Duke University as well. Their football team wears red bandanas under their helmets in tribute to his heroism.

By memorializing Welles Crowther through scholarships and traditions, these colleges uphold his remarkable legacy of courage and sacrifice. His red bandana is more than a historical artifact – it’s a living symbol of fearless goodness that calls us all to live lives of purpose and service.

The Enduring Spirit of the Man in the Red Bandana

On the fateful day of September 11, 2001, Welles Crowther sacrificed his life to save others in the South Tower of the World Trade Center. Though decades have passed, his courage and selflessness endure as an inspirational reminder of our shared humanity.

Wearing a red bandana given to him by his father, Welles rescued people trapped by smoke and flames, carrying some on his back down crowded stairwells. He led frightened workers to safety, despite deteriorating conditions as the South Tower burned above him.

In his final trips up the stairs, Welles saved more lives before the building collapsed at 9:59 am. His extraordinary heroism in the face of mortal danger exemplified the best of human compassion and courage.

In the ensuing years, Welles’s identity emerged as survivors shared accounts of being led to safety by the Man in the Red Bandana. His selfless sacrifice that terrible day left an indelible mark on America and all those he rescued.

Though decades have passed since his death at just 24 years old, Welles’s fearless spirit carries forward as an icon of 9/11. His red bandana remains a timeless symbol of hope, bravery and the power of unity against hardship.

By giving his life to save strangers, Welles embodied virtues that uplift us all in difficult times – compassion, leadership, resilience. His story provides inspiration to summon our best humanity, even when circumstances seem bleakest.

Welles’s legacy lives on through charitable foundations established in his name by his family and alma maters. They carry forth his ethos of service and community in inspiring new generations to lead with courage and purpose.

Across the country, fitness events see participants wearing red bandanas in tribute to the man whose fearless sacrifice uplifted a reeling nation when it needed hope. He showed that heroes walk among us, revealed in testing times.

Though gone, Welles Remy Crowther remains a guiding light, reminding us who we can be when lives are on the line – people united by shared bonds of humanity. His compassion knew no limits or conditions.

On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Welles’s spirit once again brought people together in remembrance of lives lost. Survivors recalled his calm bravery in the face of chaos and smoke that awful day two decades earlier.

And his iconic red bandana, a gift from his father, still summons our highest virtues even now – courage and sacrifice for the welfare of others above self. This timeless legacy empowers and calls us to live lives of purpose.

Decades later, the Man in the Red Bandana remains a stirring symbol of the light that shines in humanity’s darkness – our capacity for boundless goodwill toward others. His spirit carries us forward through tumultuous times with hope, unity and compassion.