On September 10th, 2001, I worked the third shift as a Police Sergeant at the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
Having the opportunity to work overtime on September11th (just another normal day at the time), I had the choice to choose the second (morning) shift or the third (afternoon) shift. I choose the third shift and at the time, Sergeant John McLoughlin (one of the only two 9/11 survivors), took the second shift.
Afther the first plane hit the WTC, my wife called me at home via phone hysterically. When I turned on the TV, I saw the second plane live hit the WTC. With that I rushed into work while navigating a very difficult commute, hearing on the radio that one then the second building collapsed. I knew more than likely some of my police and civilian Port Authority colleagues were killed or seriously injured.
Upon arriving I assisted with triage at the Bus Terminal, then with rescue and recovery missions at the WTC site for days and weeks ahead. I also led and participated with the Port Authority Police Honor Guard during memorial and funeral services for PAPD and civilian employees.
Geraldo E. Silva
Assistant Police Chief (Ret.)
Port Authority of NY & NJ
