SARASOTA, Fla. (Sept. 12, 2024) – USF Federal Credit Union (USF FCU) joined the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus Wednesday in a heartfelt ceremony to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. The event paid tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost, the bravery of first responders and the resilience of the nation in the wake of the tragedy.
Retired Battalion Chief John “Jack” McDonnell, a 9/11 first responder and former captain with the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), served as keynote speaker. On September 11, 2001, McDonnell, then a captain in charge of Ladder Company 24, was among the firefighters who responded to Ground Zero following the collapse of the Twin Towers. He joined in the search for survivors amidst the devastation, where 343 of his fellow firefighters were among the 2,977 people killed.
McDonnell, now a Lakewood Ranch resident, reflected on the day that forever changed the nation, the importance of remembering the civilian lives lost and the courage of those who responded.
Richard Sellwood, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of USF FCU also addressed attendees. “Today marks 23 years since that fateful day, a day that forever changed the course of history. The memories are etched deeply into our hearts: the brave first responders who ran toward danger, the innocent lives lost and the families who have endured unimaginable grief. We are here to honor them, to ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten.”
Sellwood underscored the enduring bond between USF FCU and the university, sharing a message of resilience and community. “Our partnership with USF is built on shared values, values that were profoundly tested and affirmed on 9/11. In the face of adversity, we, as a nation, saw the best of humanity and it is that spirit of unity and perseverance that we strive to uphold every day.”
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About USF Federal Credit Union
USF Federal Credit Union (USF FCU) is a full-service financial institution committed to providing exceptional financial services to its members. Believing in the credit union philosophy of “people helping people,” USF FCU strives to be the most influential financial partner in its members’ lives. Since its founding in 1959, USF FCU has grown to serve over 70,000 members with assets exceeding $1.1 billion.
Originally established to serve the University of South Florida, USF FCU has expanded its vision through passionate leadership, dedicated staff and advanced technology. With robust online and mobile banking, convenient branches, shared branches and fee-free ATMs nationwide, USF FCU makes banking easy and accessible. As a member-owned financial cooperative, its mission is to deliver financial solutions to improve members’ lives and enhance their well-being through everyday banking services, financial education and innovative solutions. For more information, please visit USFFCU.com.
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