Mike Penchina would prefer that his wedding anniversary didn’t coincide with the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. But he has a lot more on his mind 5 years after the towers fell than having to share the celebration of his 40 years of marriage this year with the somber anniversary of the attacks.
Penchina is a 63-year-old retired New York City firefighter. He worked in the city for 22 years before moving to his current home in Milton, Vermont. Like virtually everyone stunned by the events of 5 years ago today, he recalls where he was and what he was doing when he heard the news. But unlike most, he also knew he couldn’t remain where he was.
He spoke with Mitch Wertlieb about that day.