Back At Ground Zero, Niles Firefighter Has 'Rollercoaster' Of Emotions

Dan Ryan was at the site of the World Trade Center just after the Twin Towers fell, and that was where he wanted to be for the 10-year anniversary.

The retired Niles firefighter spent the weekend in New York City commemorating and reuniting with fellow first responders.

Ryan, 52, traveled there with fellow Niles firefighters, and his brother Tom, Chicago Firefighters Union President.

“The thing about New York is it represents, in many ways, our country,” he said. “It shows our resilience. Even though it was an attack, we saw the strength we have as a country."

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Ryan said the reunion and commemoration has been positive but in unexplainable ways.

“It’s a roller coaster of emotions,” he said. "It’s overwhelming to be a part of this.”

Deciding to go 10 years ago

On Sept. 12, 2001, Ryan told his wife Linda, vice president of the Niles Library Board, he was leaving the next morning for New York City. His bags were already packed.

Ryan left on Sept. 13, his wedding anniversary, with fellow firefighter Roman Kopinski. The two aided in the recovery efforts at Ground Zero.

Ryan’s brother Tom had already left.

“We thought we’d come out here and find survivors. After the Saturday when we didn’t find one living soul, it became a recovery effort,” he said.

The recovery effort was a powerful time for first responders. Ryan said he knew it was important work offering closure for the victims’ families.

“Everybody was rolling though tough feelings; we’re human,” he said. 

Back home, Niles remembers

His wife Linda Ryan spoke at a ceremony in Niles in his honor, offering memories of his trip 10 years ago. 

“It’s good because he needed to go,” she said. “He needs to be there now.”

Dan Ryan said Niles residents should remember the importance of first responders and their service to the community.

Protecting lives and property was Ryan’s main reason for leaving, and he said he is confident first responders today consider that idea their main motivation to service.

“The community needs to be protected and feel protected,” he said.

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