From Tragedy to Triumph: Dave Andres and the 9/11 Sanitation Effort

I’m very sorry to tell you all that my good friend, sanitation expert, podcast collaborator, bon viveur and fellow raconteur David Andres passed away suddenly from natural causes at his home in Houston on 7th January 2024.  He was 57 years old.

This episode is an abridged version of Dave's account of the sanitation response at Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre on 9-11. It was originally published in 2021 on the 20th anniversary of those attacks.

In the episode, Pete reflects on his friendship with Dave, recounting their first conversation and their subsequent collaboration. The episode revisits Dave's experience managing sanitation logistics at Ground Zero after the 9/11 attacks. Dave's detailed account offers insight into the logistical challenges faced in disaster response and highlights the critical role of portable sanitation in supporting emergency workers. His narrative emphasizes the importance of preparedness, collaboration, and the human element in crisis management, showcasing the dedication and resilience of sanitation professionals.

I’d like to send my condolences and thoughts to Dave’s children, Jackson, Madison and Hayley, his wider family and his many many friends and colleagues around the world.  

God Bless you Dave, I’ll miss you man.

Takeaways:

• The unexpected passing of Dave Andres highlights the impact one individual can have on both personal and professional communities.
• Dave Andres' energetic and generous spirit made him a unique and beloved figure in the sanitation industry.
• The story of the sanitation response to 9/11 revealed the critical role played by portable restroom operators in disaster management.
• Dave Andres was instrumental in deploying 750 portable toilets at Ground Zero, ensuring sanitation needs were met during the recovery efforts.
• The collaboration between competing sanitation companies during 9/11 demonstrated the importance of unity in times of crisis.
• Dave's legacy includes lessons on preparation, community support, and the importance of having a deep operational bench.
• Portable sanitation professionals are often unsung heroes, providing essential services that restore dignity and privacy during disasters.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Mister John
• Johnny on the Spot
• Tully Construction
• United Site Services
• Service Sanitation
• C&L Sanitation
• AAA
• Arnold
• Honey Bucket
• Texas Outhouse
• Andy Gump
• Satellite

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