Welles Crowther — known as “The Man in the Red Bandana.”
September 11, 2001 is etched into history as one of the darkest days in American life. But within that horror are moments of extraordinary courage. One such moment belongs to Welles Remy Crowther, a young man whose bravery saved lives and whose name still resonates with those who know his story
The Red Bandana
Welles Crowther was born on May 17, 1977, and grew up in Nyack, New York. He was a son, a brother, a Boston College graduate, and a former volunteer firefighter. On September 11, 2001, he worked as an equities trader on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center.
Even before that morning, Welles carried something unique with him everywhere — a red bandana given to him by his father. It wasn’t just a piece of cloth; it was a reminder of courage, preparedness, and care.
A Hero Emerges
When United Airlines Flight 175 struck the South Tower, chaos erupted. Smoke, fire, debris, and panic filled the stairwells and hallways. In that moment, Welles didn’t think about his own safety. He wrapped his red bandana over his nose and mouth and stepped into the danger.
Eyewitnesses later described seeing a calm, determined man wearing that red bandana. He found an open stairwell and began helping others — even those who were injured — toward safety.
He didn’t just guide people once. He made multiple trips up and down those stairs. Survivors say he carried a woman on his back and told groups “This way to the stairs,” helping them escape through thick smoke and confusion.
Last Known Moments & Legacy
Welles’ final act was still one of selflessness. After guiding several groups of people down to safety, he was seen heading back up the stairs with members of the FDNY, carrying rescue tools and looking for more people to save. Shortly afterward, the South Tower collapsed, and Welles did not survive.
At least 18 survivors have shared accounts of the man in the red bandana who helped save their lives, and that figure was later confirmed to be Welles Crowther after his family shared photographs and survivors recognized him.
Remembering a Forgotten Hero
Today, Welles Crowther’s legacy lives on. His name is engraved at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. His red bandana is displayed as a symbol of courage. Boston College honors him with annual events and memorials.
President Barack Obama himself referenced Welles’ selfless actions at the memorial’s dedication, saying the world should know the story of “the man in the red bandana” — a young man who gave his life so others could live.
Welles was just 24 years old. He had his whole life ahead of him. But on that fall morning, he chose to stand with others in a moment that tested humanity at its worst — and he showed them humanity at its best.