My father, Thomas J. McCann, was a New York City Firefighter since
1979. On the morning of September 11, 2001, my worst nightmare
became a reality. As I was walking to lunch fourth period, one
of my friends came over and told me the World Trade Center (WTC)
had collapsed. I was shocked. The girl sitting next to me was
crying. She was telling us how her father worked in the WTC and
she couldn't get in touch with him. My heart broke for her; I
couldn't imagine such a thing.
I began to get a little nervous because my father worked for the
FDNY in midtown Manhattan. However, my father also worked a second
job setting up shows in Manhattan and also loved to play golf
between his work tours. Today, I was unsure of his whereabouts,
except for the fact that he was not working at the firehouse.
I knew he was scheduled to be setting up for the Michael Jackson
show in the evening. I called my mom from the cafeteria and she
told me she hadn't spoken to Daddy yet, but not to worry because
he was not at the firehouse today. Throughout the day my teachers
would ask if we knew anyone who worked in the city who may be
affected by this. I didn't raise my hand because I knew my father
was safe (or so I thought). When I arrived home that day, my 13-year
old brother, Sean, was crying and screaming, "Daddy is at
the World Trade Center!" He did have to work at the firehouse
because someone had called out sick. My mother pulled into the
driveway and from that moment on we waited. On September 12, 2001
my father was reported missing...and to this day, although we
are not able to have proof of how, or when, or why this happened
to him, we know he was doing his job above and beyond the call
of duty.
On September 11, 2001, shortly before 9 a.m. my father ran to
the South Tower of the World Trade Center while it was burning
and debris was falling all around him. My father was risking his
life to save others as thousands were running away. There is no
doubt in my mind that he did not even think twice before doing
so. My father risked his life for others every day and for his
bravery he received the Medal of Valor and numerous other awards
posthumously. Compassion for others and loyalty to his profession
were the values that sent my father into the South Tower.
My father had a heart of gold and dedication to his family, friends
and career were always evident. He always made people laugh and
appreciate life, because my father knew how important living life
to the fullest was. He wouldn’t waste his time being upset
or angry; life was too short... and we were too precious.
Thomas McCann was not only a hero to the lives he saved, but to
the whole country. I think all of the rescue workers gave a wake-up
call to the U.S. to celebrate our freedom and stand united. I
have never seen this country as united and the letters and support
I have received from people all over the world is very heartwarming
and comforting. It is amazing to see that his heroism was appreciated
by so many. No one could be more proud than I am of my father!
No one could miss him more.
by Courtney Erin McCann
Back
to Thomas' Home Page