Today, the world paused once again to remember the tragic events that transpired 22 years ago. Amidst these somber reflections, four citizens in Berlin, Massachusetts, who stepped up heroically in the face of danger, were awarded the Madeline "Amy" Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery.
The story unfolds on April 13, 2023, as four individuals -- Brian and Dylan Clemmer, Bobby Wheeler, and Jonathan Goals -- responded to a propane explosion in a residential area. According to the Massachusetts Government news release, two 100-pound liquid propane gas cylinders leaked at a single-family home, leading to a massive explosion that demolished the structure and damaged neighboring properties.
Putting their own lives on hold, these selfless citizens, along with Berlin Police Officer Molly Plante, ventured in to save those trapped amidst the rubble. They located and rescued one woman, carrying her to safety while navigating live power lines.
On the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her admiration for these individuals, reminding us of our "capacity for collective resilience and compassion."
Their story echoes the bravery displayed by Madeline "Amy" Sweeney herself. A flight attendant aboard the ill-fated American Airlines Flight 11 on September 11, 2001, Sweeney demonstrated immense courage moments before her untimely death. She provided vital information to the airline's ground services crew about the hijackers and their actions on the plane that fateful morning. It is in her name that the award was created, commemorating the lives lost and honoring those who embody the same selfless courage she exhibited during the tragedy.
