09/11/2026
September 11 will always be deeply personal to me.
In 2001, I was 24 years old and working as a Help Desk Analyst at Related Companies (NYC) when I watched the tragic events of September 11 unfold. Like so many others, that day changed my life and forever shaped how I viewed family, community, service, and the time we are given.
In 2010, I accepted a position as Network Manager with Silverstein Properties and was given the extraordinary opportunity to contribute to rebuilding the World Trade Center. Over the next decade, I worked alongside many talented individuals who shared a common sense of purpose, humanity, and humility.
We came from different backgrounds, but we were united by our commitment to rebuilding something that represented strength, resilience, and hope. We became more than colleagues—we shared our lives, our families, our friendships, and moments that will remain with me forever.
In 2021, following the completion of the World Trade Center rebuilding effort, I concluded that chapter of my IT career. I remain humbled and grateful to have played a role in restoring the ground that carries so much meaning for our nation and the world.
My connection to that sacred ground will always remain part of my legacy. Today, I remember the lives lost, the families forever changed, the first responders who ran toward danger, and everyone who helped our country rebuild.
We will never forget.
— Saleem Baksh (Sal)
