Remembering, Honouring, and Standing Together: Reflecting on 9/11 and The Salvation Army’s Response in Gander

September 11, 2001, is a day forever etched in history. While the world watched this tragedy unfold, The Salvation Army in Newfoundland and Labrador mobilized more than 2,000 officers, employees, and volunteers across the province to provide practical and spiritual support to the thousands of travellers who found themselves stranded far from home.

Twenty-five years later, the people of Gander gathered once again to remember those events, honour those affected, and reflect on the compassion that was displayed during a difficult time.

As part of the commemorations, The Salvation Army Gander Citadel Corps opened its doors for two days, welcoming visitors to view photographs, newspaper clippings, videos, and other displays highlighting The Salvation Army’s response in September 2001.

Among those who stopped by was former mayor Claude Elliott, who reflected on the immense community effort that sprang into action in the days following the attacks.

“We would have been in trouble without The Salvation Army,” he says. “No one complained. The kindness and generosity that the passengers received [from the volunteers] made them more comfortable.”

A member of the Virgin Airlines cabin crew, whose flight was diverted to Gander in 2001, also returned to pay her respects and revisit the community that welcomed her and her passengers.

“There are no words,” she says, sharing that coming back to Gander felt like stepping back in time.

The Salvation Army also participated in the “Untold Stories” event at Gander International Airport on September 10. During the event, Majors Lloyd and Marlene George, who served in Lewisporte at the time, shared memories of supporting those affected.

“Our role was to be a welcoming face,” remembers Major Marlene. “We discovered culture had no barriers. The world had become our neighbours.”

As speakers reflected on their experiences, The Salvation Army’s impact was recognized as both meaningful and practical. One pilot recalls arriving in Gander and being met by Salvation Army personnel who provided food, clothing, and care.

“The Salvation Army was there to greet us and fed and clothed us for five days. They were saints.”

Another pilot remembers stepping off the aircraft to find volunteers waiting with food and water and describes The Salvation Army as “a bright light” during those uncertain days.

The week of remembrance culminated with the town’s official commemorative service on September 11. Representing The Salvation Army was Lt. Colonel Alf Richardson, who served as Divisional Commander in Central Newfoundland in 2001 and helped lead The Salvation Army’s response. He participated in a candle lighting ceremony as the community honoured those who lost their lives and reflected on the legacy of service that emerged in the aftermath.

Joining him were local corps officers Majors Morgan and Lisa Hillier and Divisional Leaders Lt. Colonels Scott and Michelle Rideout.

Throughout the week’s events, stories were shared, memories were revisited, and gratitude was expressed by those whose lives were touched by the kindness shown in September 2001. For The Salvation Army, the commemorations were an opportunity not only to remember its response 25 years ago, but also to reaffirm its ongoing mission of offering hope, support, and being a welcoming face to those in need.

By Janessa Hynes