Australian man Hans Kunnen has told of the kindness of a stranger on 9/11
An Australian man who was having breakfast near the World Trade Centre on September 11, 2001 has spoken of a stranger’s kindness which helped him through the chaos.
NSW
Don't miss out on the headlines from NSW. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Out of the horror and chaos of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Centre came what Sydney economist Hans Kunnen describes as the “kindest words ever”.
The Aussie economist, now 67, was at a business breakfast near the Twin Towers, when the terrifying attack hit New York.
He managed to escape the carnage and reach the Staten Island Ferry, hoping to get help at a church when he got there.
As the boat became packed, he offered a woman his seat. She declined and as she was putting on her life jacket, she knocked one of her earrings onto the deck.
Mr Kunnen picked it up and handed it to the stranger. She saw he was still wearing his conference badge saying he was: “Hans Kunnen. Sydney. Australia.”
“Then I heard the kindest words ever. The woman asked if I would like to stay with her and her family.”
Legal professional Lesley Castelucci, her husband Rod and their son John, then 3, opened their Staten Island home and their hearts to him.
Mr Kunnen spent three days with the Casteluccis as he tried to get a new passport. The Kunnens and the Casteluccis now have a bond that can never be broken.
Cops receive ‘critical evidence’ video after nurse’s home raided
Five days after two nurses went viral over comments threatening to kill Israeli patients, police have finally confirmed they are in possession of the clip they needed.
Crisis guru joins Karen Webb’s media team
Who is Police Commissioner Karen Webb’s new media chief? Why are MPs moaning about the new parliament house canteen menu? And what’s causing unrest among Coalition MPs? The Sauce is here.