How Citizens of Gander, Newfoundland Opened Homes to 6700 Stranded Passengers on 9/11

Good people always tend to pull together in a time of crisis. The time after 911 was when the entire world came together to help when we needed them.
Now wouldn't it be nice if the Republican Congress understood that and helped create jobs and end our economic crisis? The people of Newfoundland could teach them a moral lesson.

I'm sure there are more stories like these that we don't really hear about often enough. I contend that people are good at heart everyday and especially in times of need throughout the world.

Always keep this is mind. People are generally good and we only tend to hear about the bad.

The Mayor and other reps from Gander were honored in Congress yesterday (Thursday). Their reactions were so indicative of the strong, yet shy demeanor and quiet pride of the people of Newfoundland/Labrador. Quite beautiful. Gander's population doubled withing a few hours and they more than "rose to the occasion."
On this side of the country (west coast) we had a sudden landing of 34 jumbo jets, but there are plenty of hotels and many groups and individuals emerging to offer housing (and ANYTHING these travelers needed to make them comfortable) for the five days that airspace was closed. There was such an outpouring of human caring that tragic day, none of us can forget.

One flight was not responding properly amidst the confusion of the morning; for what seemed like an eternity, there was confusion and fear that it would "swoop down" then rise again and target.

That flight was escorted then by 2 F15s (from CFB Comox on Vancouver Island - about 30 km "as the crow flies"), with orders to shoot it down. (That was reported, and is confirmed (I haven't given a cite here but it is public info). It was truly 30 minutes of fear and thankfully, was a false alarm.)

The point is that the people of Gander, Nfld/Labrador. are remembered each year by the folks from all over the world, who gather in Gander each year to celebrate and renew their friendship. They have done so much for the community, some set up scholarships for high schools and the community. I remember hearing of one couple marrying a year later (she was from England and he was from America) - such bonding and caring came from tragedy and it lives on today.

It can happen. "Come on people, now, Smile on your brother...."

Voted up!

What a wonderful story. First I heard of it as well. Too bad the world don't have more people like this in it. Thank you Canada and the citizens of Gander, Newfoundland for your help and kindness on that dreadful day.

What a great example of humanity at its best.

Well life is a box of cherries and you never know what wonder is around the next corner-----------first I'd heard of this wonderful story. What a challenge for the people of the small community---------------thanks to all involved!