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A 9/11 Remembrance: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Response

New York District
Published Sept. 10, 2024
New York

DCV HAYWARD passes the Freedom Tower in Lower Manhattan during the Parade of Ships 2019

On September 11, 2001, the world watched in horror as the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center collapsed following a terrorist attack that shook the foundation of our nation. In those moments of chaos, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) quickly mobilized, responding to one of the most significant and unprecedented disasters in American history. What followed was a massive, coordinated effort by USACE and other agencies to aid in the immediate aftermath and recovery in New York City.

Immediately after the collapse of the second tower, members of the Corps of Engineers stationed along the Hudson River for a Coast Guard boat-safety class became an impromptu lifeline. Boats from the New York and Philadelphia Districts, including motor vessels Hocking, Hayward, Hudson, Hatton, and others, were quickly put into action, ferrying over 2,300 people off the island of Manhattan. “Without a second thought, everyone volunteered to help,” recalled Joe Meyers from the New York District. These vessels provided crucial transportation for evacuees and brought emergency personnel and supplies back into the city.

Three marinas were set up at Caven Point, New Jersey, to receive passengers. Buses and trains awaited those able to walk, while medical facilities were arranged for the injured and critically wounded. "On each return trip, the crews would bring back emergency personnel," Meyers noted, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

In addition to the evacuation efforts, USACE played a vital role in supporting emergency responders on the ground. Motor Vessel Hayward worked alongside local fireboats and fire trucks, supplying over 16,000 gallons of fuel and water to firefighters, as well as much-needed equipment like flashlights, batteries, protective gear, food, and shovels. "They were passing five-gallon cans by hand. There was no other way to access the site," said Josh Daskalakis from the New York District, highlighting the challenges responders faced.

Beyond these immediate actions, Motor Vessel Hocking became the command vessel, transporting the North Atlantic Division Commander Brig. Gen. Stephen Rhoades to the site. The Corps worked closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and New York City to meet the ongoing transportation, recovery, and supply needs.

For nearly a year, USACE remained an integral part of the recovery operation. The largest task was the removal of 1.6 million tons of debris from Ground Zero. Emergency dredging of the Hudson and East Rivers allowed barges to transport wreckage to Staten Island, where the Corps’ Construction Division oversaw inspection operations. The process was slow and painstaking, as the debris was part of an ongoing criminal investigation. Despite the complexity, USACE helped ensure that critical evidence, human remains, and personal belongings were recovered and returned to loved ones.

Reflecting on the Corps' response, Thomas Creamer, then Acting Chief of the Programs Directorate, remarked, "What’s most important was watching the Corps create the largest forensic crime scene investigation laboratory on Staten Island. Every piece of debris was checked twice, and identified belongings were returned to loved ones."

As the world looked on in disbelief, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, alongside countless other agencies and civilians, demonstrated extraordinary resolve and courage. The events of 9/11 tested the limits of the nation’s emergency response capabilities, but the determination to serve and protect never faltered. 

Today, as we remember the nearly 3,000 victims of that tragic day and honor the bravery of the first responders, we also reflect on the resilience and dedication that continues to define the Corps' mission. From ferrying evacuees to clearing debris and aiding in the recovery efforts, USACE played a pivotal role in the nation’s response to 9/11—a role they will never forget. 

As we pause to remember the lives lost, we also celebrate the spirit of service and unity that emerged from that dark day. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will always be proud to have stood shoulder to shoulder with other heroes, answering the call when the nation needed them most.