Michael Hingson, a blind businessman, does not get tired of telling the story of how his beloved pet and guide dog Roselle led him and 30 others to safety during one of the most infamous terrorist assaults in history. The tragic and unforgettable attack made on the World Trade Center remains an important historical turning point to this day.
Michael was on the 78th floor of the North Tower at 8:46 a.m. on September 11, 2001, when Al Qaeda launched its terrorist strike. Numerous civilians were murdered instantaneously when hijacked American Airlines Flight 11 collided with the building. The force of the impact caused the building to shake somewhat.
During the event, Michael worked as a sales manager for the Fortune 500 business Quantum. Early that day, he and a few coworkers prepared for an upcoming seminar. He remembered hearing a big boom followed by a severe tremor as the building tipped over 20 feet.
Michael related how the folks he was with suddenly understood the danger they were in and said their goodbyes with tears in their eyes. Dramatically, the building then righted itself, providing them with a little respite despite the echoed shouts of his coworkers. Soon after, debris and flaming papers fell from the upper floors to their windows.
Michael recalled his guide dog Roselle as he sat calmly, which helped him relax. He gathered his remaining power and began commanding the dog to advance, and they quickly made their way to staircase B. They walked in silence as the animal stayed calm and Michael listened to the agitated voices and sounds that surrounded them.
Michael was then guided by the Labrador Roselle through enormous clouds of debris, scattered rubble, and the crumbling skyscraper. The heroic canine miraculously took him and a bunch of other wounded down 80 levels using the stairs. They traversed dense smoke and blazing flames before reaching the safety of New York’s chaotic streets.
In his book named Thunder Dog, Michael recounted how his cherished pet Roselle saved his life. The gallantry of Roselle won countless accolades from readers worldwide. She demonstrated that our canine pals are capable of genuine concern even during our most trying times.
Source: Michael Hingson