On September 11th, we pause to remember and honor the courage, sacrifice, and resilience shown on one of the most tragic days in our nation’s history. The bravery of first responders, everyday citizens, and countless volunteers who stepped forward in the face of unthinkable events stands as a testament to the strength of the American spirit. At LKNConnect, it is important not only to reflect on the lives lost but also to celebrate the extraordinary humanity that emerged when people chose to help others without hesitation.
Each year, LKNConnect shares the powerful documentary of the 9/11 boatlift, narrated by Tom Hanks, which tells the story of the largest water evacuation in history. In just a few hours, ordinary men and women—fishermen, tugboat crews, and ferry operators—came together to rescue nearly half a million people from Manhattan. Their courage and selflessness represent the very core of what true heroism looks like. By revisiting this story, we honor not only those who lived it but also the enduring reminder that in our darkest moments, unity and compassion can light the way forward.
This boatlift was not a pre-planned operation, but a spontaneous, improvisational effort driven by the courage and compassion of New York’s maritime community. Mariners organized themselves at rallying points like Governors Island and Chelsea Piers, working together to load and move people quickly and safely across the water to Brooklyn, Jersey City, and Staten Island.
The civilian boat crews demonstrated extraordinary humanity and resourcefulness, setting an example of unity under unimaginable pressure. Their actions complemented first responders, ensuring no one was left behind on an island in crisis—a truly uplifting episode of heroism on one of America’s darkest days.
