A Firsthand Account of 9/11: A Conversation with Retired PAPD Chief John Ryan

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In this episode of the Muster Room Podcast, we sit down with retired Port Authority Police Chief John Ryan at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Chief Ryan, who was a detective lieutenant at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, provides a firsthand account of the day that changed the world. He was a key figure in the rescue and recovery operation at Ground Zero, and he shares what it was like to be on the pile in the aftermath of the towers' collapse.

Chief Ryan takes us through his career, from his early days working to clean up Times Square to his role in the 9/11 recovery effort, which lasted for nine months. He reflects on the hope of finding survivors, the heartbreaking reality of the recovery effort, and the stories of resilience and sacrifice, including that of two fellow Port Authority police officers, John McLaughlin and Will Jimeno, who were found alive after being trapped in the rubble. He also discusses the special significance of the final column, a piece of World Trade Center steel that now stands in the museum and symbolizes the 37 officers the department lost that day.

This conversation is a crucial piece of history, reinforcing why we must always remember and never forget the events of 9/11. Chief Ryan's candid and emotional recollection sheds light on the unwavering dedication of first responders and military personnel who answered the call to serve. His insights into his department's losses and their enduring partnerships with military special operations groups highlight the lasting impact of the attacks. It's a powerful reminder that while time passes, the lessons and sacrifices of that day must be preserved for future generations.