This year marks a quarter century since the terrorist attacks of 9-11, and the town of Gander is preparing to recognize that time in September of 2001 that changed the world forever.
While the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon shocked the world and forced the immediate closure of North American air space, it also put the airport town on the global map.
Trans Atlantic aircraft suddenly had nowhere to go and started landing in St. John’s, Deer Lake, Stephenville and Goose Bay, but Gander saw the greatest influx of grounded aircraft, leaving thousands of so-called “plane people” stranded.
An international flight crew forced to divert to Gander International (Town of Gander)
In what has become the stuff of legend, the people of Gander and surrounding area opened their homes and their hearts to travelers.
Residents of Gander and surrounding areas punched countless hours helping out thousands of stranded passengers (Town of Gander)
The story proved to be a positive aspect to an otherwise grim and horrific period in world history.
Gander Mayor Percy Farwell says it hardly seems possible that 9/11 was 25 years ago and they have a number of events planned to mark the anniversary.
“We know the interest and reach that we have here, and we expect that there will be significant numbers of people that might want to be here to be with us during that time… but it’s hard to prepare when you have no idea what those numbers are.”
The town is gauging response to some of its planned events through its Facebook page and town website to get people interested in attending to register ahead of time.
