President Trump Awards Medal of Freedom to 9/11 Hero Welles Crowther

President Donald Trump posthumously honored Welles Crowther, a volunteer firefighter who died rescuing victims during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, by awarding him the Presidential Medal of Freedom on September 8, 2026. The ceremony, held in Washington, D.C., recognized Crowther’s extraordinary bravery inside the South Tower and his lasting legacy as the “man in the red bandana.”

Welles Crowther’s Heroic Actions on 9/11

Welles Crowther was a 24-year-old equities trader and volunteer firefighter from Rockland County, New York, working on the 78th floor of the South Tower when the terrorist attacks struck. Wearing a signature red bandana given to him by his firefighter father during childhood, Crowther repeatedly braved the smoke-filled, collapsing stairwells to help trapped and injured survivors reach safety. His courageous selflessness continued until the South Tower’s collapse claimed his life.

Witnesses recall Crowther’s calm and determination as he guided dozens of people through dangerous conditions, cementing his reputation as one of the most remarkable civilian rescuers of that tragic day. The red bandana became a symbol of hope and heroism, representing his commitment to saving lives despite overwhelming danger.

President Trump’s Remarks and the Medal of Freedom Ceremony

At the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s “Steel Across America” event on Tuesday, President Trump presented the nation’s highest civilian honor to Crowther’s family. Trump praised Crowther’s fearless rescue efforts and noted the unusual distinction of Crowther’s fame surpassing his own.

“They call him the man in the red bandana. Have you heard that term? The man in the red bandana has become more famous than me. I don’t like it. Very unhappy. But he’s become much more famous than me,” President Trump remarked, adding a rare moment of levity amid his tribute.

Trump recounted Crowther’s words about his bandana: “With this red bandana, I’m going to change the world. I’m going to change the world with this bandana.” The president emphasized Crowther’s legacy of courage, compassion, and love for humanity.

Family Honors and Legacy of Courage

The medal was accepted by Crowther’s mother, Alison Crowther, and other family members. Alison highlighted how Welles’ heroic light continues to inspire even 25 years after the attacks. “He was no longer an equities trader on 9/11, he was a firefighter,” she said, underscoring the transformation of Crowther’s identity on that day from civilian professional to selfless rescuer.

The family’s reflections and the public recognition help ensure that Crowther’s story remains a powerful reminder of individual sacrifice amid national tragedy. His legacy endures in volunteer firefighters and everyday heroes across the country who carry forward his example of bravery and service.

The Significance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor awarded by the United States, reserved for those who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the country, world peace, or cultural or other significant endeavors. By awarding Crowther this honor posthumously, President Trump highlighted the enduring impact of Crowther’s heroism and the nation’s gratitude for his sacrifice.

As the nation observes the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, honoring heroes like Welles Crowther serves as a reminder of the individual acts of valor that shaped that day and continue to inspire resilience and unity in the face of adversity.

Welles Crowther’s story stands as a testament to courage and selflessness, qualities that transcend time and continue to resonate across America.