MORRISTOWN, NJ Legislation sponsored by Senator Anthony M. Bucco that would designate May 27 of each year as “Richard Rescorla Day” was approved by the New Jersey Senate.
“On September 11, 2001, Richard Rescorla made the ultimate sacrifice while leading a massive evacuation of 2,700 individuals from the World Trade Center’s South Tower,” said Bucco (R-25). “By designating May 27 as ‘Richard Rescorla Day,’ we will help bring awareness to this courageous individual, and honor him for his service and sacrifice on one of our nation’s darkest days.”
The bill, SJR-88, would recognize Morristown resident and decorated Vietnam veteran Richard Rescorla on his birthday, May 27, and honor him for his heroic efforts during the attacks on the World Trade Center.
On September 11, Richard Rescorla was serving as the Vice President of Security for Morgan Stanley Dean Witter at their headquarters in the World Trade Center. Following the attacks, Richard led a massive evacuation of Morgan Stanley’s 2,700-person workforce located in the South Tower. After the last of the employees had evacuated, Richard returned to the building to make a final sweep. Richard Rescorla was last seen alive accompanying firemen up the stairwell on the tenth floor, shortly before the South Tower collapsed.
“In just 56 minutes, from when the South Tower was hit to when it collapsed, Richard helped save the lives of thousands of people,” added Bucco. “I hope that by establishing a day each year to honor him, more people in New Jersey will learn about, and be inspired by, his story and bravery.”
Colonel Richard Rescorla, born as Cyril Richard Rescorla on May 27, 1939 in the town of Hayle in Cornwall, England, was a United States Army officer and decorated Vietnam veteran. Richard Rescorla, assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Calvary Division, successfully led his platoon during America’s first major battle of the Vietnam conflict, the Battle of Ia Drang. Richard’s leadership and bravery in Vietnam earned him two Bronze Stars, a Silver Star, the Purple Heart, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.
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