Lawler Introduces Bill to Award ‘Man in the Red Bandana’ the Congressional Gold Medal

Washington, D.C. - 9/19/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced legislation to posthumously award Welles Remy Crowther, the "Man in the Red Bandana," with a Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor Congress can bestow. The Welles Remy Crowther Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes his extraordinary heroism on September 11, 2001, when he gave his life rescuing others in the South Tower of the World Trade Center.

The Congressional Gold Medal has been awarded to leaders, innovators, cultural icons, and American heroes whose legacies live on for generations. The Welles Remy Crowther Congressional Gold Medal Act would permanently enshrine Crowther's sacrifice as one of the defining examples of American courage in the 21st century.

"Welles Crowther embodied the very best of America. When terror struck, he didn't think of himself; he thought of others. He went back again and again into the fire, saving lives until his last breath. His story is one of courage, sacrifice, and selflessness, and it continues to inspire us 24 years later. There is no one more deserving of the Congressional Gold Medal," said Congressman Lawler.

Crowther, an Upper Nyack native and volunteer firefighter, sacrificed his life rescuing others on September 11th when he led survivors to safety from the South Tower of the World Trade Center while wearing his trademark red bandana. At least 18 people survived that day because of his bravery.

Crowther's heroism has become a lasting symbol of courage and sacrifice in Rockland County, across New York, and throughout the nation. His legacy continues to inspire generations to choose service, compassion, and bravery in the face of adversity.

Lawler made the announcement at Empire Hook & Ladder Co. No. 1 in Nyack, Crowther's hometown firehouse, joined by local officials, first responders, and the Rockland County Volunteer Firefighters' Association. He also formally asked President Donald J. Trump to award Welles Crowther the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Full text of the bill can be found HERE.