Westfield, New Jersey
His Flag Is Still Flying
Richard B. Madden's daughter, Patricia, was only 19 months old when she kissed her father for the last time. But already they had their little jokes.
Every morning, before setting off for his job as an insurance broker at Aon, he would warn her, "I'm going to work. Don't grow up on me now." Then, when he got home, he would chide her for having disobeyed him.
Mr. Madden, 35 and a first-time father, would also forbid her to mess with his still full head of hair, which, of course, she took as an invitation.
And as only a dad can do, he taught her how to clink her juice bottle to his beer glass and say, "Cheers."
Father and daughter shared one other little ritual long before it became fashionable. Mr. Madden would take down the flag outside his home in Westfield, N.J., each night before bed and take it indoors. Each morning, little Tricia would shout, "Flag! Flag!" to remind him it was time to hang it again. "My husband was a strong Republican," said Mr. Madden's wife, Maura. "He was very proud that at her age, his daughter wanted the flag outside."
On Sept. 11, he had called Mrs. Madden from the 100th floor of the south tower, afraid he would not make it out. The authorities later identified his body in the rubble from the inscription on his wedding ring, which read, "Rich, all my love, Maura."
Since Sept. 11, the flag has remained on display, round-the-clock, and the ring has remained on display around Mrs. Madden's neck.
Rich, I found some more old photos of you and the family going back into the 60s, including those from Thanksgiving celebrations. What great memories, and they´re also reminders of your legacy. You are always in our hearts. Love you, my cousin. Bob
Bob Ewald
September 14, 2025
Rich, I posted a message yesterday on your legacy site but it seems to not have published. I just want you to always know that I continue to think and pray for you my cousin. I continue to travel to NYC, and this year was there with my wife Elizabeth. I prayed once again for you and all the other victims of the terrible attack that caused you and so many other souls to be taken from us that terrible September 11th day. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers all the time Rich. Bill...
Bill Madden
September 12, 2025
Rich I think about you often. Another year and it still feels like yesterday. I´m so sad that you were taken and never understand how I survived. I miss everyone at AON and you will never be forgotten.
Donna spera
September 12, 2025
Rich, My dear cousin, today was another very sad day 24 years ago, remembering your infectious smile and the fun times we had visiting Grandmother and Granddad as well as other family events. We all do miss you. The picture below is this years annual tribute to you and all the other victims lost on September 11th 2001.
Bill Madden
September 12, 2025
I am wearing a bracelet my wife gave me after the 9/11 attack. I can´t believe it´s been 24 years!
Drew Skillman
September 11, 2025 | Other
Hey Rich. 24 years later and still seems like yesterday. I still smell the air and hear the sounds. Starting at Aon on the same day together, meeting each other for the first time at lunch that first day.... The memory never fades. Your big smile and laugh keeps me smiling as you smile down from Heaven on your family. Thank you for the fun times and laughter. Will never forget you Rich.
John Sames
September 11, 2025 | Work
Hey Rich. Amazing it’s been 20 years. The day is still fresh for me and I do think of you often when I see something that reminds me. In particular when I hear someone laugh hard and deep I smile a little. You are missed. JOHN
John Sames
September 11, 2021 | Flemington, NJ | Coworker
Wow Rich (has it really been) 20 years! You are missed and remain in my thoughts and prayers all the time. I travel to Manhattan numerous times a year and always stop by your name to not only say a prayer but to say hello my cousin we miss you and I can't wait to be together again shooting hoops and drinking a beer. Bill
Bill Madden
September 11, 2021 | Richmond, VA | Family
Hey Rich. Long time no see. You are always on my mind. Tricia is amazing. We are so proud. You are always on our thoughts and prayers. Bob
Bob Madden
September 09, 2021 | Newport, RI | Brother
