Finding uplifting stories from the 9/11 attacks is difficult. Even the inspiring tales of heroism often involve scenes of planes crashing, buildings falling, and close calls with death, all surrounded by trauma and grief. These stories are essential but aren't precisely “comforting” stories.
This 9/11 story stands out. It highlights an act of basic human kindness towards individuals who, while not amid the attacks, were still significantly impacted. It serves as a reminder that considerate, everyday actions by ordinary people can make a significant difference in the lives of those they encounter.
Mercedes Martinez hosts a morning radio show in the Las Vegas area. She posted on Twitter about how her dad helped seven strangers get home after flights were grounded 9/11. She's looking to reconnect with these seven individuals, but her dad's actions alone are a heartening reminder of the goodness in ordinary people.
She wrote: “Did my dad assist you on September 11, 2001? If so, I'm trying to find you.
On September 11, 2001, my dad boarded a flight in Ohio. He was heading back to Denver after a business trip and eager to reunite with his family.
Soon after takeoff, the pilot informed the passengers that the flight was grounded because of a security issue and that they would land at the nearest airport, Omaha. He indicated that he would give more information once they had landed.
Sensing the seriousness of the situation, my dad called a rental car company as soon as he had cell service and reserved their giant van while still in the air.
Upon landing and learning more about the situation, he went to Avis or Hertz (we’re not sure which one), picked up the van, and returned to the terminal. He found a cardboard box near a trash can and borrowed a Sharpie from a ticket agent.
He then fashioned a sign from the box that read, “GOING TO DENVER.”
People started approaching him, asking if he was going that way. He said he rented a van and could take seven people with him. Word began to get around.
He found seven frightened strangers, all longing to return to their families. The eight of them got into the van, and my dad drove them, starting from Omaha to Denver. Once in the metro area, he delivered each person directly to their home.
For those familiar with Denver, you know it's a vast area with many suburbs. Despite the distance, he made sure everyone received front-door service. They all offered to pay for the van, but he refused their money. They even offered gas money, which he also declined.
To him, the only thing that mattered was getting these people to their loved ones during a national crisis. Many stayed in touch with him for years after 9/11, which deeply touched him. We were incredibly proud of him then, and we still are.
My dad passed away from brain cancer on July 24, 2016. I often wonder if those individuals still remember him and if, on the 20th anniversary of that day, they might think of him briefly as they recall their experiences.
I'm hopeful that social media will help find those people. I'd love to hear their stories about that journey. His name was Emilio, and while many heroes emerged that day, he has always been my hero.
If you were one of the seven people my dad helped on September 11, 2001, please send me a direct message.
Indeed, Emilio's quick thinking, compassion, and generosity were truly heroic. Thank you, Emilio, for showing such human decency and kindness. And thank you, Ms. Martinez, for sharing your dad's remarkable story.
Martinez shared this story last night; there has been no update on whether any of these individuals have been located. Let's use social media to help connect her with the people her father assisted.