Story perspectives

Trump Awards Posthumous Medal of Freedom to 9/11 Hero

5/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump announced at a Rockland County rally that Welles Remy Crowther will receive a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Crowther, a 24-year-old equities trader, guided survivors out of the South Tower on September 11, 2001, saving eighteen lives.
Rep. Mike Lawler advocated the honor and gave Trump a red bandana from Crowther’s mother before the announcement.
Alison Crowther thanked officials and called the medal the nation’s highest civilian award.

History

Historical Context

After the September 11 2001 attacks, which lifted President George W. Bush’s approval to 86%, the nation celebrated civilian heroism and began honoring rescuers. In 2011, President Barack Obama posthumously awarded the Medal of Freedom to Welles Remy Crowther for guiding survivors from the South Tower. President Donald Trump’s 2024 rally announcement echoes that tradition of recognizing civilian bravery.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump announced at a Rockland County rally that Welles Remy Crowther will receive a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Crowther, a 24-year-old equities trader, guided survivors out of the South Tower on September 11, 2001, saving eighteen lives.
Rep. Mike Lawler advocated the honor and gave Trump a red bandana from Crowther’s mother before the announcement.
Alison Crowther thanked officials and called the medal the nation’s highest civilian award.

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