Rick Thornton

  • First Responder, Witness
  • Audio Description

NY Waterway Captain who participated in the largest waterborne evacuation in American history on 9/11.

2024 Digital Learning Experience Video - Rick Thornton (Audio Description)

Rick Thornton AD

This story was filmed as part of our 9/11 Anniversary Digital Learning Experience, which introduces students to first-person accounts of the 9/11 attacks. To participate in our next Digital Learning Experience, visit this page. 

Teaching Guides

Find tailored questions below for teaching this story.

As you listen to Rick's story, consider the following questions:

  • What was Rick doing that morning when the attacks started? What made him realize something was wrong?
  • How did Rick and his crew decide to respond? How did their actions demonstrate care for other people?
  • Rick said he saw lots of people helping others that day. What are some examples he mentions? How can you show support and care to people in your own community in times of crisis?

As you listen to Rick's story, consider the following questions:

  • Describe Rick’s morning and what he saw. How did he decide to respond after the impact of the first plane?
  • Describe the scene at the waterfront; what were conditions like? How did Rick try to reassure people?
  • What do you think Rick means when he says he saw the best in humanity? Can you think of any examples in your own life when you have witnessed people helping others during difficult times?

As you listen to Rick's story, consider the following questions:

  • Describe Rick’s morning and what he saw. How did he decide to respond after the impact of the first plane? What was his thinking?
  • What were conditions like for Rick and the other boats helping to ferry people out of Manhattan? What challenges did the boat crews face as they assisted people? How did they try to keep people calm?
  • What do you think Rick means when he says he saw the best in humanity? Why is it important to remember and recognize those who help others during a crisis?

Additional Resources

To learn more about Rick Thornton’s experience, visit the MEMO blog. You can learn more about the 9/11 Boatlift by watching our public program All Available Boats, featuring Rick Thornton and others who participated. To hear more first-person accounts from those directly impacted by 9/11, return to the DLE Archive.