I am overcome by what I just watched on TLC. Every one of us has been affected by September 11, 2001 in some way, shape, or form. I remember being pulled away from Challenge Course training when Tom Rapine drove out to tell us that the second Tower of the World Trade Center had been hit by another plane. No one has good memories of that day.
I remember attending the memorial service of one of our Camp family members, Frank De Martini, who lost his life in the North Tower of the WTC. I remember earlier that summer when his son and nephews were dropped off in Cherokee Village for their session of Summer Camp. I knew Frank died a hero who saved many lives in the WTC, including that of his wife, Nicole. Before tonight, I had no idea exactly what Frank did on that horrible day or how many lives he saved. It is still difficult to watch footage and interviews of what happened on 9/11, but I am glad I watched “The Heroes of the 88th Floor.” Frank De Martini and his co-worker, Pablo Ortiz, sacrificed their own lives to save the lives of 77 people trapped in the WTC on Sept. 11.
I don’t have the words to describe how I feel right now or the admiration I have for Frank’s courage to save others in the face of certain death. All I know is that I will never forget that day or the bravery of so many people who put others’ lives in front of their own. God bless Frank, Nicole, Dominic, Sabrina, and the entire De Martini Family, Pablo Ortiz, and everyone who gave their life or lost a loved one on 9/11. Your Ockanickon Family will never forget.
Brent Birchler
Boys Camp Director