On Sept 11, 2001, a terrorist attack on the World Trade Center resulted in over 3000 people losing their lives. Among those killed in the attack were the responding fire fighters and police officers.

Over 2700 people were saved through the efforts of one person who knew another attack to the World Trade was just a matter of time. Rick Rescorla, head of security – Morgan Stanley, Tower II, World Trade Center. Rick was the head of security for Dean Whitter during the first attempt to bomb the World Trade Center in 1993. He believed since the first attempt failed, the terrorists would try again. He met with several security consultants on the possible threats and methods the terrorists could use. Bombing the buildings with an aircraft was discussed as a possible threat after the 1993 attempt.

Rick was convinced another attack could occur soon. As head of security for Morgan Stanley, he decided the staff needed to be prepared for this possible event. He began upgrading emergency systems, radio system and emergency drills. Some people thought he was obsessing over this possibility. He was known to have numerous fire drills in the same week, sometimes the same day. He assigned duties and partners in case of an emergency.

On 9-11, he ordered the evacuation of all 2700 staff members (94th- 97th floors of Tower II). As problems arose, the trained staff was able to work around it. Rick constantly went back in the building to help with the evacuation. When the evacuation was over 2700 employees had survived. There were six deaths – one of those was Rick Rescorla.

The documentary  “The Man who Predicted 9/11” by the History Channel illustrated the efforts of Rick prior to and including 9/11.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9iLzu_bGys

A website has been created to document the efforts of Rick and his accomplishments (www.rickrescorla.com ) One person‘s determination can make a difference.

Hill, D. (2005) Stand and never yield: How Rick Rescorla saved 2700 lives on 9- 11.

   www.rickrescorla.com

The History Channel (2005) The man who predicted 9 -11. History.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9iLzu_bGys