Gander, Newfoundland's September 11 Welcome
Have you ever wondered how a small town could make a big difference during a global crisis? What would you do if thousands of strangers suddenly needed your help?
In his book The Day the World Came to Town, Jim DeFede tells the remarkable story of Gander, Newfoundland's September 11 response. You'll discover how this tiny community opened its hearts and homes to thousands of stranded airline passengers in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.
Get ready to be inspired by tales of extraordinary kindness and generosity as we explore how Gander became an unexpected haven of hope during one of the darkest days in recent history.
A Small Town's Big Heart: Gander's Response to 9/11
Unexpected Guests Arrive
On September 11, 2001, the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, found itself at the center of an extraordinary situation. As the tragic events unfolded in the United States, Gander, Newfoundland's September 11 story began to unfold. Dozens of flights were diverted to the town's airport, bringing with them thousands of unexpected visitors and setting the stage for an incredible display of hospitality.
The sudden influx of passengers pushed Gander's resources to the limit. Town manager Jake Turner, along with airport officials and Mayor Claude Elliott, quickly sprang into action. They declared a state of emergency, secured hotel rooms, and prepared to provide essential services to both passengers and planes.
A Community Rallies Together
The people of Gander and surrounding towns showed remarkable compassion and hospitality in the face of this unprecedented challenge. They opened their homes, schools, and community centers to provide shelter for the stranded travelers. Local pharmacies supplied necessary medications, while residents ensured that diverse dietary needs were met, including kosher meals.
You might be surprised to learn that even people from neighboring towns like Port Albert, Gambo, Glovertown, Dover, and Hare Bay pitched in. They offered their homes, cooked meals, and provided whatever assistance they could. This outpouring of support wasn't just about meeting basic needs – it was about making the "plane people" feel welcome and cared for during a frightening and uncertain time.
Newfoundland Hospitality in Action
The hospitality shown by Gander's residents goes beyond simple kindness – it's deeply rooted in Newfoundland's culture. The island's isolated nature has fostered a strong sense of self-reliance and mutual aid. When you visit Newfoundland, you'll find that helping others is simply a way of life.
During those days in September, this spirit was on full display. Locals freely shared food, bedding, and personal items. They organized activities and entertainment to boost morale. Community organizations stepped up to provide comfort and support, with volunteers working tirelessly to ensure the passengers' safety and comfort.
Personal Stories of Kindness
The book The Day the World Came to Town is filled with touching personal stories from both passengers and locals. You'll read about Maria and Lenny, who found themselves unexpectedly descending into a small town they'd never heard of. Hannah and Dennis O'Rourke spent anxious hours worrying about their firefighter son in New York while trying to process their own situation.
But amidst the fear and uncertainty, acts of kindness shone through. Mayor Claude Elliott arranged tours for the visitors. The Shepards and other locals offered their homes for showers and lodging. Passengers were given free meals, phone calls, and even the use of vehicles.
These gestures deeply moved the stranded travelers. Many formed lasting bonds with their Gander hosts, staying in touch long after they returned home. The experience created a tight-knit community bonded through shared experiences and genuine acts of goodwill.
A Legacy of Compassion
The story of Gander's response to 9/11 has captured hearts around the world. It's even inspired a hit Broadway musical, Come From Away, which vividly portrays the events and highlights the community's unified spirit.
Gander's legacy of compassion has endured. The town has become known as a beacon of hospitality, drawing visitors who want to experience its famous kindness firsthand. The events of 9/11 cemented Gander's global reputation and instilled a deep sense of pride among its residents.
A Lesson in Human Kindness
The story of Gander serves as a powerful reminder of humanity's capacity for compassion in times of crisis. Rabbi Levi Sudak often uses Gander as an example of social cohesion, encouraging people to find the inherent kindness in others.
For many of the "plane people," their experience in Gander was life-changing. George Vitale and Tom McKeon, deeply moved by the hospitality they received, have carried the spirit of Gander's kindness with them. Vitale now promotes global camaraderie through Taekwon-Do, while McKeon often reflects on the genuine goodwill he encountered.
In a world that can sometimes seem dark and divided, the story of Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001, stands as a beacon of hope. It reminds us that even in our darkest hours, the light of human kindness can shine through, bringing warmth, comfort, and connection to those in need.