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Col. Richard C. Rescorla
Col. Richard C. Rescorla
Obituary
Guest Book
Richard Rescorla Obituary
Legendary Vietnam warrior. Poet and quoter of Shakespeare and Proust. Criminal justice professor. Screenplay author.
Col. Richard C. Rescorla, the head of security for Morgan Stanley Dean Witter's individual investor group, was a big man who lived large and died a hero, barking out orders on a megaphone in a smoke-choked stairwell and personally seeing to it that Morgan Stanley lost only 6 of its 3,700 employees on Sept. 11.
Colonel Rescorla, 62, was carrying out the evacuation plan he had drawn up and repeatedly rehearsed after the 1993 bombing.
He grew up in England, joined the British Army, and moved here in 1963 to fight with the United States Army in Vietnam. He led a platoon through the notorious valley of Ia Drang, where more than 200 American soldiers died; a battlefield photo of him graces the cover of the 1992 best seller "We Were Soldiers Once . . . and Young."
At a gathering of Ia Drang veterans in 1992, Colonel Rescorla, who leaves a wife and two children in Morristown, N.J., described his vision of facing death:
"A man is dying down there in the valley, and what do you do? You hold him in your arms and you say to him ‹ it's all you can say to him ‹ you say: 'You're not alone, son. You're not alone.' And he's gone."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
John and Barbara
September 12, 2023
Remembering a true American Hero who Sacrificed His Life to save Countless Other Lives. Heroes are Born that Way, Not taught. You are, and Always will be Richard, Our Trueist Inspiration and a Great roll Model to Look Up to Always. We will Never, Ever Forget Your Sacrifice. Rest In Peace, Colonel.
Judy Cherbonneau
September 12, 2023
Rest in peace, Rick and I will never forget the many lives you saved over your entire lifetime and keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.
September 11, 2023
Always a hero. A life well lived. We will never forget you, Colonel.
John and Barbara
September 16, 2021
May You Rest in Peace, Col. Richard Rescorla. We will Never Forget You. A True American Hero. We Salute You, Sir. RIP.
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Judith Cherbonneau
April 25, 2021
I read this book, "Heart Of A Soldier" written by James B. Stewart and I highly recommend it to anyone who knew or wants to know more about this heroic warrior. I think of you often, Rick and still treasure the letter, your friend Dan Hill wrote to me, after your death. Rest in peace, sir. https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Heart-of-a-Soldier/James-B-Stewart/9780743244596#:~:text=Heart%20of%20a%20
Norman Bild
April 24, 2021
I want to start an Army ROTC scholarship at University of Tampa in honor of Rick Rescorla, need guidance.
Jordan H
September 12, 2020
Thank you for your courage, heroism and leadership, You saved so many lives 19 years ago. I will never forget your actions and bravery,
September 11, 2020
Remembered. A hero whose love for others was always first, even in his passing. Your life is celebrated. I will never forget. May God richly bless your family and friends with continued comfort
Vince Nasilli
September 12, 2017
Col.Rescorla, you will always be remembered as a hero on the field of combat and in civilian life as you guided those workers out of those burning buildings, as a fellow Vietnam Veteran and former Morristown resident I will never forget what you did. SGT.Vince Nasilli, 173rd Abn.Brigade Vietnam 67-68-69.
Scott Chamberland
November 14, 2015
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
Jordan H
September 12, 2015
Thank you for your heroism & bravery & putting others first. I will always honor & remember you . God bless
Judy Cherbonneau
September 11, 2015
Rest in peace, Col. Rescorla. You always were a patriot warrior and on 9-11, on that tragic day, was no different than any other day in your life. Thousands of innocent people have you to thank for saving their lives. You have my utmost respect and I continue to pray for your wife. God bless you.
V K
September 11, 2015
God Bless you Sir!
Mary Reavis
September 10, 2014
Col. Rescorla, you are remembered and admired. RIP
JORDAN H
September 11, 2013
thanky ou for your heroism and bravery and knowledge of how to help so many people out of the building that day. you are amazing. you are never forgotten. God bless you
Linda
November 4, 2012
As a fellow Cornish person I went to pay my respects at the 9/11 memorial September 2012. No I didn't know you but you will always be remembered as a true Cornish hero
Mary Reavis
September 10, 2012
Col. Rescorla, you are remembered. When in college in 1999, I struggled when writing a paper on "What is a Hero". Today, I would have no problem...Col. Rescorla you are a hero.
Joan MacLeod
August 16, 2012
I read the book "We Were Soldiers Once and Young" and really enjoyed it and thought it would make a great movie which as we all know they did. When 9/11 happened I was as shocked as everyone else. Later I heard of the sacrifice Rick made and all the people who lived because of this hero of a man. I still think this great man should have been recognized with a medal of bravery or something because he died saving lives while forfeiting his own during an act of terror. He will always be a hero to me and I wish I had the honour of knowning him. R.I.P Col. Rick Rescorla.
Peter Rios
August 8, 2012
I first met Mr. Rescorla in August of 1995 after being hired by Hill & Bowles (now Bowles Corporate Services,) a contract security company that had a contract with Morgan Stanley. I was a bit nervous when I was set up to be interviewed by Mr. Rescorla for a security position that had recently become available, but he quickly put me at ease with his sense of humor. While interviewing me, Mr. Rescorla learned that not only was I a veteran, but that I had served with the 1st Cavalry Division, and that I had also served in the Military Intelligence field. Needless to say, I was accepted on the spot.
Several weeks later He saw me reading a book about the Vietnam war
titled "Bloods" and remarked that I appeared too young to have served during the Vietnam era. I assured him that I was too young but that I was a Military History buff. We then talked about Military History, and he recommended the book "We Were Soldiers Once...And Young" by Joe Galloway and General Hal Moore. After work that day, I stopped by the book store on the street level of the WTC and picked up the book. I was immediately taken by the book, and after seeing the name Rescorla several times, I couldn't wait to get to work the next day and ask if he was related to the Rescorla mentioned in the book.
The following day, I approached him and thanked him for recommending the book, which I was enjoying immensely. I then asked him if he was related to the Rescorla mentioned in the book, to which he replied, "Actually that's me!" At this point I asked if he could please sign the book for me, to which he readily agreed.
Long story short, Mr. Rescorla was a fair man, a good man and as far as I'm concerned, an American hero and an inspiration! He and his family are always in my prayers, and not a day goes by that I don't think about him, being that I live in Staten Island and see the skyline twice a day, everyday.
In closing I'd like to say that it was truly an honor working for him and knowing him, and if I could be half the man Mr. Rescorla was, I'd die a happy man.
Rest In Eternal Peace Mr. Rescorla, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for the little things you did in a big way. And to you Mrs. Rescorla... may God bless you and your family.
Sincerely,
Peter Rios
Lee Bradbury
April 14, 2012
I first came across Rick's name in the book, 'We were soldiers once...and young'.
He was a hero then and he was a hero at the end when he sheparded his staff out of the WTC but failed to make it out himself.
It was the way he wanted it though as he once said he did not want to end his life being spoon-fed by a nurse.
Nicholas Soto
September 11, 2011
God Bless You
Darline Soto
September 11, 2011
My son Nicholas came home from school with an assignment to research and write about a 9/11 hero. He wrote about Richard. He was very moved by his life and his bravery. My son was only 11 months old when this tragedy occured but since he has been old enough he has been researching everything he can about that day. He wants to tell Richards wife thank you for everything he did for our country and for everything he did that day. He will be praying for him tonight before bed.
Christine
September 11, 2011
I saw Col. Rescorla's name on the 9/11 Memorial site. The name stood out to me because I have heard the story of his heroism multiple times in the last 10 years. Countless people you their lives. You had a plan and you saw it through.
God Bless your friends and family on the anniversary. May they find comfort in the legacy you have left behind.
Phillip Marcucci
September 11, 2011
Garry Owen
Phillip Marcucci
E Btry. 82nd Arty
1st Shift 65-66
Annette
September 11, 2011
Ten years later and I am just now reading the amazing story of your final gift to others. Truly amazing, to give help to your fellow co-workers. God bless you and keep your family and friends in good health.
Rebecca Syberg
September 10, 2011
I was just reading the story of Col.Richard Rescorla, what an amazing man, a gift to us all. Thank you for sharing your story.
Steve
September 8, 2011
Rick Rescorla, A man who remembered seeing GI's in England and new what he wanted to be. After surviving a war, I think his finest hour was on September 11th. Standing by the code he learned years before," no man left behind" he gave the ultimate sacrifice. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends"
Rest in Peace
John P. W
September 6, 2011
Always in deep respect.
Judy Cherbonneau
September 4, 2011
You were an angel on earth and now an angel in Heaven. Rest in peace, Rick.
Linda Meyers
September 3, 2011
The warrior now at peace. Go with God Rick.
January 19, 2011
you saved many people rick. rest in peace love.
September 11, 2010
You are a hero. Thank you for saving my cousin!
Alan Corcoran
September 10, 2010
Wishing I could have had the opportunity to meet my distant cousin. The bravery you demonstrated throughout your life and especially on 9/11 will never be forgotten.
Alan
Judy Cherbonneau
September 8, 2010
Rick,
On this sobering anniversary, you are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and may he watch over your wife and family.
Judy
Michelle S.
May 4, 2010
Rick Rescorla is a national hero not only in Britain but in the US. Without his courage to stay in the building, many would not have survived. We in Hayle (where he is from) have several memories to him including the eagle on the plymth by the harbour and a local school built a garden in his memory. We are a proud town, proud of him and his curteous actions that cost him his life but saved so many. RIP Rick.
Nick
March 31, 2010
Thank you. You are an American hero.
Rebecca M.
November 16, 2009
I watched a program on the History Channel yesterday, be it sometime since 9/11 happened, it really makes you think. Rick was an amazing man, caring for his colleagues and their safety... He is a hero, and should be remembered as such. We all will remember what he did and how courageous he was.
james romsey
October 7, 2009
I heard of Ricks bravery this morning on the Bill Bennett radio show. Mrs Rescorla spoke fondly of Rich and his heroism. Rick must be an extra ordionary human being. I wish i had a chance to have knowed him. God Bless Him and all the rest of the 911 heros/
September 15, 2009
I only hope that I can raise my boys to be as courageous and honorable as you Rick. You are my personal hero and I stive each day to be as courageous as you.
Judy Cherbonneau
September 12, 2009
The world will never be the same without heroes like yourself. Thank you for the sacrifices you made, many times in your lifetime, especially the ultimate sacrifice you made on September 11, 2001. Rest in peace and may God continue to bless your lovely wife.
Vicki
September 12, 2009
Rest in Peace, Rick.
You are a true hero, never to be forgotten. Peace and love to your family.
Cindy H
September 11, 2009
Rest in peace dear Richard... You are a hero!!
To the family:
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
christsa boyd-schmitt
August 28, 2009
one fine man - a hero
Doug Abraham
May 27, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
P Cohen
April 30, 2009
Destiny's course was set to have this hero of hero's in that terrible place when he was needed the most. Rest in peace.
Marissa Vado
January 6, 2009
I am doing a project on 9/11 and he has inspired me to do better in life!
Debbie Thomas
September 12, 2008
Still so many tears after all the years & I am sure they will never stop.
Jeannie Davis
September 11, 2008
Your husband is a hero. My thoughts are with you and yours today. May you find peace and comfort. We will never forget!
Stacey Petrowski
September 11, 2008
“The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example.”
Benjamin Disraeli
I could never say so eloquent words that describe how Col. Rescorla's story touched me, and even though I did not know him, I say a prayer to his family and his memory and legacy he left not behind...but to follow.
Thomas Fagan
September 11, 2008
May we all act so dutifully when the need arises, and by the grace of God may the need never again arise.
Judy Cherbonneau
September 10, 2008
Rick Rescorla is and always will be a hero in my eyes. Sadly, we have to recall the events that took you from earth on your journey into Heaven. There are few people who deserve to rest in peace with our Lord, than you. God Bless you and may he watch over your family.
P.S. I wrote to your friend Dan Hill and received a lovely letter in return. I thank God every day for heroes like you and your friend, Dan.
Ian Gatrell
September 27, 2007
This man did more in a lifetime, than most could dream of. It always seems that so much is owed to so few. RIP
courtney rappa
September 11, 2007
sir, you are a true hero! god bless you and your family and friends. my dad worked in tower 1 and like you beleived that after 93 this was going to happen again, i've seen the documentary about you before and am watching it again now. rest in peace
Rosemary McKenna
September 11, 2007
On this sixth anniversary of the darkest day in American history, I want to say how sorry I am about the loss of Rick Rescorla, a true hero.
In the days after 9/11 when flyers with photos of the missing were posted all around the city, I saw one with his name on it and was immediately saddened to learn that he had been in the building.
In the days that followed, we heard of his incredible bravery and dedication to his fellow Morgan Stanley employees.
As a soldier, he didn't let his guard down and was prepared to face the enemy. So many people made it out of the building alive because of this incredible man.
My neighbor Pat, who also served in Vietnam and also died on 9/11 at the World Trade Center, was cut from the same cloth as Col. Rescorla. When they were taught leave no man behind, this oath and their training stayed with them until their dying breath on 9/11/01.
We must never forget Col. Rescorla's bravery and dedication.
His wife, children, friends and men that he led through war were very fortunate to have such an incredible man in their lives.
God bless Rick Rescorla and may he rest in peace.
Rob Boulton
June 10, 2007
Few people deserve more praise than this guy. I was asked recently at work to pick out a role model, and while most people chose celebrities, I chose Rick. After getting Morgan Stanley's employees out of Tower 2, he could have walked out of that tower a hero. But he didn't leave - he stayed in there to help still more people, even though he must have known he might lose his life in the process. He had no obligation to do that.
Rest in peace Rick! You deserve that statue put up in Fort Benning and other things people have been fighting to get you!
Rob Boulton
Doug Abraham
June 2, 2007
Happy belated Birthday!!!
Michele Gottlieb
May 7, 2007
I worked in the heart of DC on 9/11 and have since retired to Florida. It is so important that we not ever forget the face of terrorism that appeared and will keep reappearing. Rick Rescorla was truly a hero on 9/11 to which all workers in the towers on 9/11 owe a huge debt of gratitude. He saved countless lives that day and paid the extreme price with his own life. I hope that Susan has been able to find some peace and will continue her fight to see that Rick receives the honor due him.
kristine
April 17, 2007
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
February 14, 2007
In memory....
Georgia Bolus
December 20, 2006
I really don't know what to say after watching the documentory on the History Channel, paying tribute to this wonderful, thoughtful, caring and gentle man. There is a verse in the Holy Bible that comes to mind. It is John 15:13 -- Greater love has no man than this, to lay down his life for his friends. God be with you.
Delores Dickinson
October 2, 2006
The unselfish sacrifice of such a man reflects the highest honor and demonstrates the spirit of a true American. In his death is the very example of a hero. What an inspiration to know that our country continues to produce such men in times of crisis. Hearfelt sympathy to the members of his family. You were blessed to have him. America is diminished by his loss. Surely Heaven shines brighter for his arrival.
Annette
September 12, 2006
Last night I watched a television programme aired on ITV 1 in the UK, this programme was about the a courageous, intelligent, caring, brave and far thinking man who on September 11th 2001 saved the lives of many people, the man in question was Richard Rescorla.
I and I am sure many others watching this programme, were inspired by your bravery and altruistic actions on this day. You were truly a very special person, and it is so sad that you were taken from this earth so soon. Rest in Peace.
Annette
Philip Cronin
September 11, 2006
I have a picture of Rick on my desk that is there to remind me what and why we are fighting. Rick is the quiet hero who coolness under fire led men to be more than they thought they could be. He inspired those around him to reach for more and at the sametime give more of themselves. Even today, after his moving to heven on golden wing, he reaches out to another being and turns their soul. Tonight I will sit on my porch and think of the man I met many years ago with Col Moore. The thought of him fills me with pride in having met him for preif moment in time. God Bless and Keep him. He will live on in the hearts of all of us.
T M
September 10, 2006
Five years later, you still remain in thoughts and heart. A gentle giant, always smiling, gave the best bear hugs a person could want and was committed to ever Morgan Stanley employee. You kept all safe from harm. I am honored to have known you. And, I am sure as you ascended, you received golden wings. You will be forever in our hearts, our angel, Rick.
Cyndi Farris
September 8, 2006
Every year I return to this guest book for Rick Rescorla and every year I am moved beyond words by what I read. In late August, 2005, I was on a shuttle van traveling between Alamogordo, (White Sands) New Mexico and El Paso, Texas. There were only five people in the van and soon I was reflecting on September, 11th, with the man sitting behind me. He told me he had lost a fiend in the World Trade Center. This was a friend he had served with in Vietnam. He called his friend a hero’s hero. He did not tell me the name of his friend. I was touched by his story. After he finished, I told the man I worked for Morgan Stanley and I wanted to share that story with him. When I told the part about Rick’s picture being on the cover of the original book, the man began to weep. He looked at me and told me we were talking about the same man, Rick Rescorla. I tell Rick’s story everywhere I go. I never met him but I think of him so very often. Rick will always be remembered by so many in so many ways.
Nancy K. Nee
August 15, 2006
I just watched the History Channel program about Mr. Rescorla. Although I missed most of it, I understand that Mr. Rescorla saved more than 95% of the employee's for Morgan Stanley. As a fellow family member of the horrors of September 11th, I can only wish you, his family the very best of peace and solace, knowing that Rick did all he could to save so many, offering his own life instead. My brother is FF. George C. Cain from Ladder 7. He also lost his life trying to save others. I hope they are together looking over all of us and the rest of the country. God knows we need their protection.
Bless you, his family!
Nancy Nee
Diana Ficarrotta
February 19, 2006
I have just watched the history channel (predicted 911) and I am so truely moved by the heroism of Rick Rescorla. He is a true american hero!
Christopher Roche
September 11, 2005
Dear Sir:
What you accomplished will never be forgotten. I know you are in the OCS Hall of Fame, but when I was at OCS I never got the time to visit it (I think you know what I mean).
Thank you for being a hard charger and saving so many on this day 4 years ago. Yours is one of the true untold stories. I know you defied the PA's ridiculous announcements, but in our building 7 WTC, they never even made an announcement! I know hindsight is 20/20, but your foresight made all the difference.
God Bless your Sir.
-Christopher Roche
Maria Ragonese
September 16, 2004
I am a 9/11 family member. On September 11th, I lost my sister in law/best friend, Laura Marie Ragonese-Snik at the World Trade Center. I share your pain and understand the heartache of losing someone you love beyond words.
I just finished reading Rick's story "Heart of a Solider" ... What an amazing man, and amaizng story. It was as if everything in his life prepared him for that imfamous day. I can't help but wish we had more people in charge with Rick's incredible wisdom, presence of mind, and ability to act in a crisis. If we had, so many more would have survived that dreadful day. Rick knew what would eventually happen to the WTC and no one, with the power to act, listened to him.
God bless, Rick for ignoring the Port Authority's fateful annoucement for the people in the South Tower to remain where they were. My best friend, Laura was above him on the 101st Floor ... An employee of AON Consultants who ultimately lost over 200 people. I only wish to God someone like Rick would have been up there with them.
To Susan, all your children, and Rick's childern who are left behind: Your husband and father was a true hero. He will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
theresa Belt
August 25, 2004
I read the book Heart of A Soldier. I can only thank God everyday for men like Col. Richard C. Rescorla are born into this world. I am humbled by his act of heroism. God Bless you Susan and your beautiful children.
Kelly Viray
December 3, 2003
This was a beautiful site to visit. While reading this, it brought tears to my eyes. I thank God and All Americans serving in some way or another to better our world so we can live in PEACE!
Kelly Viray
December 3, 2003
This was a beautiful site to visit. I have since forwarded this to my father who served in the Viet Nam War. This site brought tears to my eyes!
Roy Thornton
September 12, 2003
The Hero of the Day of Civil Infamy
I cannot help feel that Lt. Colonel Rick Rescorla was a soldier’s soldier, a gentlemen’s gentleman, and by far, a hero’s hero. He proved this to me beyond a shadow of any doubt, when, on the tenth floor of the south tower, he chose to ascend back into the tower when he could have just as easily descended, to safety and the one person that had completed his life, his wife Susan.
He not only had a Heart of a Soldier, but was a true soldier in that by descending the stairs that day would have violated one of the main, basic general orders of a soldier, that of deserting his post, until everyone he was responsible for was out safely, which would allow him to be the last to leave, this his last battlefield, leaving no one behind.
Although he was out of the military, nothing short of the Congressional Medal of Honor could possibly begin to pay proper tribute to this man. Lt. Colonel Rick Rescorla, you are, the Best of the Best. You will forever be the great Hero of September 11, 2001. Your actions clearly deny any Claim to Victory, that Osama Ben Laden may have had in this cowardly attack against the United States of America. You may not have wanted any recognition for your actions as a soldier, but your actions of that day clearly put you in the category of Hero, Role Model, and greatest of Soldiers.
Rick Rescorla,
Director of Security for Morgan-Stanley-Dean-Witter,
“AMERICA SALUTES YOU!”
Cyndi Farris
September 11, 2003
I have worked for Morgan Stanley for 18 years. When I think of Sept. 11th, I think of Rick Rescorla. I never meet Rick but I have never been more affected by any human in my life. One of our Sr. Executives, Jack Palazzo, from NY, came to visit our Center last year and told the story of the man on the cover of "We Were Soldiers...And Young, the man that lead thousands from the tower on September 11th. Mr. Palazzo's voice shook as he told the story with such passion. A few days latter I saw the Date Line story and Rick has been my Hero since. Today was a hard day! A day of reflection and tears on this 2nd anniversary on 9-11. I must say spending time with Rick this evening has helped a lot. Mrs. Rescorla, you must be proud to know that Rick is still touching lives and making a difference. I saw something today that I would like to share with you. I do not know who wrote it but he was struck by the memory of the quite across the country once all the planes had been grounded. He writes: "At first, some newspapers tried to name the event "Day of the Birds" because of the fact that everything else was grounded by the government. The name never stuck, though. Somehow, I always thought it was perfect. It was a day that began with a noise too horrible for words to do it justice - and quickly became a day that was much, much too quiet. A day when the only noise you could hear was the collective weeping of Americans nationwide." Mrs. Rescorla, I want you to know, I will not forget what Rick did for thousands and thousands of people September 11th and all the day of his life. I weep for you, Mrs. Rescorla! I weep for your loss but I rejoice in a life so richly lived. Every time I here the song, “Wind Beneath My Wings” I can see all the wonderful snapshots and footage that was used on the “Date Line” special. Mr. Rick Rescorla, “Thank you, Thank you, thank GOD for you, the wind beneath our wings”…
Cyndi Farris/Morgan Stanley/Dallas TX
Larry Burlile, Sr.
September 11, 2003
To the Memory of Rick Rescorla,
A fine soldier that truely cared for his men. Although I did not get to meet you personally and to Thank You for what you did for my Cousin Thomas E. Burlile, let it be known that you cared about human life more than your own..I have read both
"We were Soldiers..and Young and Heart Of A soldier" I got to know the type of man that you truely were.There are no words that can truely express to your family and this Great Country a real assest it lost.
May God be with you, your family and this Country! You will always be remembered in my heart. May God Bless You !
A former Soldier with the Highest Respect!
Kelly Prudden
September 11, 2003
I read the book called "Heart of a Soldier" about Rick Rescorla. After reading it, Rick Rescorla made me want to go out help people; make myself a better person. I had more respect for service men after reading that book and "We Were Soldiers Once...And Young." He truly was a hero, twice in one lifetime: in Vietnam and at the World Trade Tower. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Susan, his children and his best friend, Dan Hill. God Bless this wonderful man and his family. He truly was a hero and I consider him the spirit of American Pride and Honor.
1SG Roger Oslizly
September 11, 2003
Gary Owen Sir!
Patricia Yutko
September 11, 2003
What a wonderful, brave, giving person. I read the book "Heart of a Soldier" What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. God bless all he left behind. We will never forget those who perished on 9/11 and pray for those who continue to grieve.
September 11, 2003
Rick, today marks two years since the day ... but I'll never forget you. You were one of the first people I met when I joined Dean Witter. And I can never thank you enough for what you did to help me, personally, and those I care about. Thank you for saving my friends. Thank you for saving my colleagues. A million thank yous wouldn't begin to say it. God bless you and your family.
From 2 WTC, 64th Floor
Carol Kelley
September 1, 2003
I have tried to contact Mrs. Rescorla on many occasions via US Postal Mail. All, unfortunately, unsuccessful. I hope she reads this. Your husband is a hero. His deeds in Vietnam give great strength to those, including my husband, who are now fighting in a foreign land. Mr. Rescorla's actions spoke volumes more than words ever could have. His spirit is still very much alive and well, ma'am. He showed us ALL what it means to have REAL honor.
Judy
August 27, 2003
Dear Rick,
Your memory lives on because I truly believe, Heroes never die!
Judy
Judy Cherbonneau
July 6, 2003
Dear Rick,
I continue to read books about the war in Vietnam and as I do, your memory is in my mind as I read the words.
As my e-mail address clearly states...I am a HeroWorshiper and men like you...I do hold in the highest regard because you were a Hero in life!
God Bless you and may he watch over your family until you are all united once again!
George Palaidis
March 10, 2003
I first read "We Were Soldiers Once,...and Young" back when it first came out and when I was still in middle school. The story of those who fought those three days was a telling story, and truly encapsulated what every man out there was. I found out yesterday that the colonel was among those lost at the World Trade Center while I was visiting a website on the book. As I read the short article done by the Times, I saw again the man I read about so many years ago, and it truly pains me that such great people are lost. Yet the comforting thing, for me and I am sure for his family, is that he fulfilled what God had in store for him. He saved lives in the Ia Drang, and he saved lives in the WTC. The colonel is a great man, and he will not be forgoten.
Judy
December 24, 2002
Merry Christmas in Heaven!
Your spirit and inspiration will live on as will the stars in the night time sky, the sun that warms the earth, and the ocean that reaches each shore!
The story of your life will remain in my heart for eternity.
Love Judy
Judy Cherbonneau
December 8, 2002
With tears still fresh upon my face, I turned the last page of "Heart Of A Soldier" after recently reading "We Were Soldiers..."
These books make me feel as if I have been blessed to have known this hero, Col. Rick Rescorla. With than in mind, what I would like to say is:
Col. Rescorla was more brave than any lion...
Col. Rescorla soared higher than any eagle...
Col. Rescorla was a knight in shining armor...
Col. Rescorla was a soldier and young...once and a true patriot until he drew his last breath!
God Bless you Col. Rescorla and rest in peace.
God Bless you Susan and your family and all the other people who had the wonderful good fortune to know and love this man! God Love You All! You will all remain in my thoughts and prayers, forever!
Christopher Roche
November 24, 2002
I am almost finished reading "Heart of a Soldier", an amazing story. I worked at Dean Witter and was in 2 WTC back in '97. I was beginning my second day at Salomon Smith Barney in 7 World Trade Center on 9/11. Rick's story speaks to me in a way that I cannot explain. I was in a Naval recruiter's office two weeks after 9/11, but I decided to pursue the Army instead. I am now pursuing OCS with the Army National Guard. I am also a third year evening student New York Law School. Like Rick, I hope to be a lawyer and a soldier.
Through this tragedy, I have come to realize who the true heros are in this country. Rick Rescorla is at the top of that very short list. I hope I can make it all the way to Fort Benning and honor the memory of Rick and all of the other soldiers who have given everything for freedom. My greatest hope, however, is that Rick's family and friends can find peace in knowing that he is an incredible inspiration to those of us left behind.
Gwynn
October 24, 2002
Uncommon life, uncommon valor. The cream rose to the top and never touched back down. Bless those he loved and that loved him.
Judy Cherbonneau
October 23, 2002
GOD BLESS OUR HEROES...HEROES SUCH AS COL. RICK RESCORLA!
I just received Col. Rescorla's story from a brother who lost his FDNY brother and who wanted me to read about this hero!
I just finished reading WE WERE SOLIDERS...and also watched the movie! Both, broke my heart!
Having grown up during the Vietnam Era, I already knew there were heroes in our midst. There were many young men who never returned from Vietnam to my home town in Vermont.
YOU, COL. RESCORLA WERE A HERO ALL YOUR LIFE! GOD BLESS YOU AND HAVE A WELL DESERVED REST WITH GOD IN HEAVEN!
God Bless you, your family and all the heroes of wars long ago who perished and those who survived and heroes of this present war on [email protected]
I was a Soldier once, and young..
Rich Mooney
September 22, 2002
As a veteran, I am appalled at the loss of such a great human being, and leader, to such a sad end. He was meant for higher things, but was called home too early.
Jim Augeri
September 13, 2002
Like so many others, I only learned of Rick Rescorlas heroism from the story of "We Were Soldiers...". It is truly inspiring to know that people like the Col exist in our world. Upon learning that he was one of those who ushered so many people out of WTC2, sacrificing his own life to do so, only serves to convince me that there may be hope for us as a society yet. I served my time in Vietnam many years ('68-'69) after his story had been written in the Ia Drang valley, but I know I would have followed him anywhere. Rest in peace, Col; the world is a better place for your having been part of it.
Rick Featherston
September 12, 2002
I also first heard of Colonel Rescorla while reading the book, "We Were Soldiers Once ... and Young"! A hero then and a hero now! "Greater love has no one than this, that a man lays down his life for a friend!" --John 15:13
God bless you my friend,
Rick Featherston
September 12, 2002
You're not alone Colonel... you're not alone.
Allan Cook
September 12, 2002
From the Ia Drang to the WTC, a helluva man and an inspiring life. I will never forget your story.
Gillian Reed
September 12, 2002
What an amazing man you were!
Go in Peace!
September 12, 2002
Watching yesterday's coverage of the events of 9/11, Richard Rescorla's heroic story came to mind often for me today.
My deepest sympathy to his wife and family.
Cathleen Penyak
September 12, 2002
In memory of those who lost their lives one year ago, the people of San Diego, CA read each name and rang a bell of freedom once for every person lost. It was with honor that my family read the name of Richard Rescorla today. We will always remember you. :)
Chris Higgins
September 11, 2002
I first learned about Col. Rescorla after I read "We were Soldiers Once...and Young. There was a lengthy article in the Washington Post which had a picture of Rick on the cover of the book. I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn that it was the same man that died helping his fellow employees to safety. I would like to express my condolences to his family. He was a great warrior who fought with courage and valor in the Vietnam War so many years ago.
LTC(ret) Julian Carnes
September 11, 2002
Gary Owen, COL Rescorla. I commanded A Co,8th Engr Bn, 1st Cav in Korea and am an honorary Trooper of the 7th Cav. God Bless you for your devotion to duty and your unhesitating willingness to lay down your life for your comrades. We will all meet on Fiddler's Green.
Gary Owen!
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