How Roselle, The Labrador Retriever Guide Dog, Saved Her Owner on 9/11

On September 11, 2001, a heroic story of unwavering loyalty and exceptional bravery emerged from the chaos of the World Trade Center attacks. This story belongs to Roselle, a Yellow Labrador Retriever guide dog, and her blind owner, Michael Hingson. Roselle's actions that day turned her into a symbol of courage and dedication.

Michael Hingson worked on the 78th floor of Tower One, also known as the North Tower, of the World Trade Center. On that fateful morning, Hingson and Roselle arrived at the office just like any other day. At 8:46 a.m., American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower between the 93rd and 99th floors, immediately plunging the building into a state of chaos and panic.

Despite the loud explosions, the debris, and the chaos that ensued, Roselle remained calm. As a guide dog, she had undergone rigorous training to remain composed in high-stress situations, and this training now shone through. Hingson knew that he could trust Roselle’s calm demeanor and relied on her to navigate the stairwell amidst the commotion.

The journey down the stairwell was perilous. The stairwells were crowded with other evacuees, with walls beginning to crack, and dust and debris filling the air. Throughout the descent, Roselle guided Michael for nearly an hour, traversing 1,463 steps without faltering. Her steady pace helped Hingson maintain his composure and trust that they would make it to safety.

Around the 30th floor, they encountered firefighters ascending the stairs, bringing hope and urgency to their mission. By 9:58 a.m., Roselle and Michael had navigated all the way down to the lobby of Tower One. Just moments after stepping outside, they witnessed the collapse of the South Tower. Hingson’s faith in Roselle’s training and her instinct ensured they continued to move away from the area, eventually reaching complete safety.

Roselle’s story became a testament to the profound bond between guide dogs and their owners. She was later awarded numerous honors for her bravery, including the American Kennel Club's Award for Canine Excellence and being a finalist in the 2011 American Hero Dog Awards.

Roselle’s behavior during the evacuation exemplifies the blend of rigorous training, innate loyalty, and heroism that guide dogs embody. Her calm presence amid pandemonium serves as an inspiring reminder of the critical roles these dogs play in the lives of their owners. Roselle passed away on June 26, 2011, but her legacy as a heroic guide dog endures, reminding us of the incredible trust placed in these remarkable animals.

Roselle’s actions on 9/11 underscore the remarkable capabilities of guide dogs and their significant roles in providing safety and independence for individuals with disabilities. The story of Roselle and Michael Hingson is not just a tale of survival but also an enduring testament to the bond between humans and their canine companions.