The Connection between “Men of Harlech” and 9/11
“Men of Harlech” is a traditional Welsh folk song that has a significant connection to the events of 9/11. The song was sung by Rick Rescorla, a security director at Morgan Stanley, on the morning of September 11, 2001, as he helped evacuate thousands of people from the South Tower of the World Trade Center.
According to accounts, Rescorla, a Cornishman who had a strong connection to Wales and its culture, sang the song to calm his colleagues and boost morale as they evacuated the building. The song’s lyrics, which speak of bravery and loyalty, resonated with Rescorla’s own heroic actions on that day.
Rescorla’s story is a testament to the human spirit and the importance of music in times of crisis. His actions that day, including his decision to sing “Men of Harlech” to his colleagues, will always be remembered as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of tragedy.