When the nation marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Bend’s own former Shift Battalion Chief Bob Madden was on hand to share his personal story. Madden, who served with Bend Fire & Rescue for decades, was part of the Central Oregon task force that traveled to New York City to provide logistical support at Ground Zero.
From Bend to the World Trade Center site
On the morning of September 11, 2001, Madden woke to news that American Airlines Flight 11 had struck the North Tower at 8:46 a.m. Eastern time. He spoke with his two sons before heading to work, joining fellow firefighters gathered around television screens. “It was our Pearl Harbor,” he recalled, noting that his generation would always remember where they were when the attacks unfolded.
Shortly after arriving at the Bend fire station, the South Tower collapsed 56 minutes after being hit. The North Tower fell at 10:30 a.m., sending a massive cloud of dust over Lower Manhattan. Madden told his sons, “something bad happened, but you’re going to be okay,” before witnessing the second tower’s collapse.
Logistical mission at Ten House
Madden’s team was stationed at Firehouse 10 – known locally as Ten House – directly across the street from the World Trade Center site. Their primary role was to ensure ground crews had the supplies they needed. The crew set up a command post upstairs, supporting Engine 10 and Ladder 10, two of the first units to respond when the towers were struck.
Five firefighters from Ten House lost their lives during the rescue effort. Madden described walking through the locker room after the tragedy, seeing the untouched shoes and personal items of those who never returned.
Health toll on responders
More than 300 firefighters, 71 police officers and 60 other first responders died on September 11. In the years since, health complications from Ground Zero exposure have affected thousands. The World Trade Center Health Program reports that over 154,000 people have enrolled, including 95,000 first responders and workers who served at the site.
Several members of Madden’s task force have suffered chronic lung issues and cancer. Their incident commander died a year ago after a lung transplant. Madden expressed ongoing concern for his own health and that of his fellow responders, saying, “I am worried. I’m still worried… right now knock on wood I’m okay, but that doesn’t mean I won’t be in the future.”
Community solidarity
During the deployment, Bend residents visited local fire stations in solidarity, offering support as first responders prepared for possible mobilization. Madden admitted he was initially skeptical that New York officials would request help from an Oregon crew, but his wife’s confidence proved correct when the call came.
He also recalled a personal connection to the city: his father grew up in Brooklyn, and Madden once posed for a photograph in front of the towers while they were still under construction.
Remembering the sacrifice
As the nation reflects on the 25th anniversary, Madden’s recollections underscore the bravery of Bend’s firefighters and the lasting sacrifices made by all who answered the call. Their service, both at home and abroad, remains a testament to the dedication of first responders who protect our communities every day.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
