Each year, fifth grade teacher Mary Austin teaches a lesson on September 11, sharing the story of Welles Crowther, the Boston College student now remembered as the Man in the Red Bandana. Students learned about Welles’ courage and selflessness on September 11, 2001, when he helped rescue others from the World Trade Center before losing his own life.
As part of the lesson, the class watched a short documentary about Welles’ life and the values he lived by. They reflected on his bravery, his character, and the importance of helping others—even those you don’t know.
Although the lesson was meant to stay in the classroom, the students were so inspired that they carried it into recess. They created posters, organized an impromptu run, and cheered one another on as they honored Welles. They even invited fourth graders and staff members to join in, turning recess into a moving tribute as they chanted and cheered for his number, 19.
“I wanted to honor Welles because he helped people he didn’t even know, even when it was dangerous,” said Griffin, a fifth grader. “The run was really cool—people were cheering, and it felt good to honor him.”
For Ms. Austin, the moment was especially meaningful. “As a BC graduate, it was deeply meaningful to see students take something so significant, make it their own, and create a powerful tribute to Welles Crowther.”
What began as a history lesson became a living reminder of the impact one person’s courage can have—and how students can find creative ways to carry forward those lessons of service and sacrifice.