my point of view…

Rising to the occassion as the World Trace Center came tumbling down

By the time most of you read this, the sense of surrealism surrounding the hours following the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. will have probably faded. The red-hot anger directed at the perpetrators of the horrible event might have cooled slightly. But if I’ve judged the character of this industry and its members accurately, your commitment to helping New York and the rest of the nation recover continues to be unwavering.

Sitting down to write this editorial, a mere 24 hours after the collapse of the WTC towers, I’ve already been struck by the manner in which the industry stands ready and willing to help—through whatever means necessary. In the hours following the attacks, I stood transfixed, along with many of you, as round-the-clock news coverage illustrated the events of the day. By early evening as emotional fatigue set in, I was uplifted by the sight of construction crews and loader operators helping with rescue efforts. These volunteers reaffirmed the generosity of spirit that characterizes members of this industry and stood in sharp contrast to the hatred and disregard for life that was so strongly depicted throughout the events of the day.

“I know that we’ve just had a wonderful expression of willingness to help by our industries,” said Dave Hamling, managing director of the New York Construction Materials Association, Inc. “Many of our down-state New York producers have mobilized manpower and equipment to help with debris. I guess you look for any bright spots you can find, and I think this is a bright spot—to have that sort of willingness to pitch in as an industry.”
In the days that follow, there continue to be opportunities to make a difference.

Photo courtesy of Caterpillar Inc.

Offer manpower and equipment when it is needed. Nearly 300 stories worth of building have collapsed in lower Manhattan. Cleanup and rebuilding efforts are likely to be prolonged.
Contribute financially.
Give blood. Despite the overwhelming initial response, the American Red Cross is likely to need replenished supplies, so schedule an appointment.
Show the world that we are proud of both our industry and our nation.
Be patient. The impact of this event is likely to be long-lived. Whether it’s untangling financial matters or waiting an extra day or two for parts and equipment, we’re all likely to feel the aftershocks.

One of the goals of a terrorist act is to instill fear. And as countless emotions rippled through us on Sept. 11, fear found a place in each of us alongside shock, disbelief, despair and rage. Rather than give into that fear, the aggregate industry has risen to the occasion and demonstrated its resolve. And that leaves me with one final feeling—pride.