The morning of September 11, 2001, began as a seemingly ordinary day. As I navigated my way through New York City, little did I know that the events about to unfold would forever alter the course of my life and the lives of countless others. Being at Ground Zero during the attacks was an experience that shook me to my core. Witnessing firsthand the heroism, resiliency, and sheer determination of first responders and everyday citizens left an indelible mark on me—a mark that would eventually lead to the creation of the 9/11 Legacy Foundation.
In the years that followed 9/11, I struggled to process the immense grief, fear, and helplessness that stemmed from that day. But amidst the tragedy, I saw something extraordinary—the human spirit’s ability to rise above even the darkest moments. I recounted these reflections and experiences in my book, Next Steps Forward, which became a personal testament to the resilience and courage I had witnessed. Writing the book was a cathartic experience, but it also sparked a deeper realization: I had a responsibility to ensure that the lessons of 9/11 were not forgotten, especially the stories of those who embodied heroism and resilience.
The idea for the 9/11 Legacy Foundation was born years later when I partnered with documentary film producer Michael Gier. Together, we embarked on a journey to create a documentary that would capture the essence of 9/11—not just as a tragedy but as a story of hope, courage, and unity. The process of developing the documentary brought me face-to-face with survivors, first responders, and the families of those who had perished. Their stories were heartbreaking but also inspiring, revealing a shared determination to carry on and rebuild. It became clear to me that a single documentary wasn’t enough to honor their legacy. We needed something more enduring, a foundation dedicated to preserving these stories and fostering the values of resilience, unity, and service.
My experience as a co-founder of SoldierStrong played a pivotal role in shaping my vision for the 9/11 Legacy Foundation. At SoldierStrong, we worked tirelessly to support veterans by providing cutting-edge technologies like exoskeletons and virtual reality systems to help them regain mobility and reintegrate into society. It was through this work that I learned the importance of addressing not just physical wounds but the invisible scars left by trauma. The men and women I met through SoldierStrong shared a commitment to service that mirrored the heroism of first responders on 9/11. This reinforced my belief that honoring 9/11’s legacy required action, not just remembrance.
The Frontline Foundation, another organization I co-founded, became an essential part of this journey. This 501(c)(4) advocacy organization is dedicated to supporting first responders, ensuring they have the resources, recognition, and respect they deserve. The work of The Frontline Foundation underscored the ongoing challenges faced by those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. Whether it’s addressing mental health issues, securing better benefits, or simply acknowledging their sacrifices, our mission is to stand by the men and women on the frontlines—a mission deeply intertwined with the values of the 9/11 Legacy Foundation.
The creation of the 9/11 Legacy Foundation felt like the culmination of these experiences. It is a place where the stories of courage and resilience are preserved and passed on to future generations. Through educational programs, public events, and partnerships with organizations like SoldierStrong and The Frontline Foundation, we aim to inspire people to embody the spirit of service and unity that defined the aftermath of 9/11. It’s not just about remembering what happened; it’s about carrying forward the values that emerged from that tragedy.
As I reflect on this journey, I am reminded of a quote often attributed to Fred Rogers: “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” On September 11, 2001, and in the days that followed, I saw helpers in every corner of Ground Zero. They were firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and ordinary citizens who chose courage over fear. The 9/11 Legacy Foundation exists to honor their memory and to remind us all that even in our darkest moments, the light of humanity shines brightest through acts of kindness, bravery, and solidarity.
Today, as we continue to face new challenges as a nation and a global community, I hope the foundation serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action. The legacy of 9/11 isn’t just about what we lost; it’s about what we found—our capacity to come together, to rebuild, and to move forward, one step at a time. That is the spirit I strive to preserve and share through the 9/11 Legacy Foundation, SoldierStrong, and The Frontline Foundation. And that is the spirit that I hope will inspire generations to come.
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