Thursday, October 12, 2023

America's Dinkirk

No training.  This was just what people did that day.

- One of the captains that evacuated Manhattan on 9/11 

It's not quite fair to call this "America's Dunkirk", since the English Channel is a lot wider than the Hudson River.  And the Luftwaffe had something to say in 1940, that they didn't have in 2001.

But this is a great story, well told by Tom Hanks.  About the time that the Coast Guard sent out a radio message to all boats that can help evacuate Manhattan.  This is the story of the boats who responded, and evacuated a Million people in a day.

I've posted about this before.  But this seems somehow apropos.  And click through to that post to see the comment from Friend Of The Blog Paul, Dammit! who knows a bunch of the people interviewed in this.  It's worth your time.  

And you do read his blog every day, don't you?  Thought so.

3 comments:

juvat said...

America's Dinkirk?

Other than that, good video.

startseo said...



Hey there,! I just finished reading your article on "America's Dunkirk," and I couldn't help but be captivated by your storytelling. It's not every day you come across such a well-researched and thought-provoking piece. Your writing has a way of making history come alive, and I felt like I was right there in the midst of the events you described.

The comparison between the historical Dunkirk evacuation and the American experience was fascinating. Your ability to draw parallels between these two significant moments in history sheds a unique light on the challenges and resilience of those involved. I also appreciate how you emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort in times of crisis, which is a lesson we can all learn from, especially in today's world. Thank you for sharing this eye-opening article and for your dedication to preserving and sharing these stories. I'm looking forward to more of your insightful writings in the future! https://certifiedtranslationservicesusa.com/

Gerry said...

I think the evacuation was well underway by the time the Coasties got involved. A good friend ran a Boston Whaler down from White Plains, to get his wife and coworkers back home.

Kudos for the USCG for getting things organized.