Richard “Rick” Rescorla was born a British citizen. He served in British military service and as a police officer in Rhodesia before migrating to the United States. He joined the United States Army just in time for the Vietnam War. Rescorla was assigned to the 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). The 7th Cav (Regiment) was once commanded by George Custer.
In 1965, the 7th Cav earned fame at the battle of Ia Drang. That battle is the subject of the book, “We Were Soldiers Once and Young,” and a movie starring Mel Gibson. Rick Rescorla was a young platoon leader at the battle of Ia Drang. He was wounded, and he was decorated for bravery.
After military service Rick Rescorla became a security officer, eventually becoming chief of security for the investment firm Morgan Stanley. Morgan Stanley’s offices were in the New York Trade Towers where they employed 2700 people. Rescorla had developed an evacuation plan for his company, and on September 11, 2001, the day of the fateful attack, he supervised the successful evacuation of all, except six, of the Morgan Stanley employees who were at work that day. Rescorla was in the second tower searching for anyone who may have been overlooked when the building collapsed.
We honor you, Rick Rescorla.
