09/11/2025
On September 11, 2001, as chaos unfolded in the North Tower of the World Trade Center, a guide dog named Roselle became an unexpected hero. She calmly led her blind owner, Michael Hingson, and a group of over 30 people down 78 flights of stairs to safety. Despite the smoke, noise, and confusion, Roselle remained focused and composed, helping others stay calm simply by her presence.
During the descent, Roselle paused only once, to comfort a woman having a panic attack. She gently nuzzled and kissed her, offering reassurance in the most human way a dog could. Her quiet strength and unwavering loyalty helped transform fear into courage, allowing the group to continue their escape even as the building trembled around them.
Roselle’s actions that day became a symbol of trust, training, and the extraordinary bond between guide dogs and their handlers. She continued to serve until 2007 and passed away in 2011, but her legacy lives on as a reminder that heroism can come on four paws, with a wagging tail and a heart full of love.
