A Georgia Angel

It is my privilege to dedicate my post today to honor Michael James Stewart, 42 years old, and living in New York in 2001.  He was born in Ireland and came to the States about 20 years earlier.  A dedicated rugby player/coach, working hard to provide for his wife and two sons, and finally graduating from Pepperdine University with an M.B.A.  He rose in the ranks of the banking industry, starting out as an entry-level position at the Bank of Scotland in New York City, and then working as an account executive for Carr Futures on the 92nd floor of 1 World Trade Center.  No one heard from Mr. Stewart the day he was killed in the terrorist attack on the Twin Towers.  He was working for Carr Futures on the 93rd floor, believed to be the point of impact of the first plane, American Airlines Flight 11, on the North Tower at 8:46 a.m. on September 11, 2001.

His wife of 16 years, Diana, and his two sons, Eamon and Francisco, honored him by standing with 200 others in reading the names of those who died on that day during the 5 year annniversary memorial in New York.  The 2 sons ended their reading by showing a picture of their dad in his rugby uniform.  Diana believes “The notion of reading names we realized was very important, a sensitive issue and very honorable”. [Read more of the article from wcbstv.com.]

Remembrances by friends

My memories of you are still vivid—as a young first year joining the rugby squad. You were the captain and a leader by example both on and off the pitch. I had the highest regard for you.  Duncan Beckwith on 2009-06-02

I … will remember your husband walking down Lincoln Street in a suit with briefcase in hand with a smile. -Kira

Michael was incredibly passionate about everything he did. He was an accomplished and insightful banker, a rabid rugby player and, I have no doubt, a warm and loving father. As the anniversary of that terrible day approaches, I smile at the memory of Michael’s quick wit and ready smile, and grieve at the loss of a good friend.  ~Chris

He was a gentleman, smart and had a brilliant sense of humour. ~Michael

Michael and I attended Belfast High together. We took A level English and History together and I have fond memories of lively debates in the Sixth Form Centre.  ~Sara

I loved talking to him about poetry and literature. He was truly fun to be around and a great person. I have no doubt he was a great Dad. Michael thank you for always being there as a friend. You are truly missed. ~Kathy

I never even knew that he was a rugby star, or even an athlete. But he was certainly a great team player in the bank, and a real friend to everyone there. ~Peter

Mike was a great captain for our rugby team. He was an inspirational player in that he achieved so much on the field becasue of his mental and physical toughness. ~Jerry

I had the privilege of playing for the Old Blue Rugby club when Mike was our captain. I remember him as a true leader on and off the field, and as a friend who was simply fun to be around. ~Ken

I knew him as a tremendous rugby player then but I only really got to know him when we worked together in a labouring job for the local council in the summer of 1979. I remember he was great company and kept us all entertained with stories from his rugby matches at university. ~John

what a legacy you left! You were an incredible person that was loved and respected by many. You would be surprised how many lives you touched in your 42 years. It was an honor to have known you an considered you part of the family. ~Mark and Roxanne

He was once asked what he would like to be rememembered most as.  This man who was a successful banker and rugby player replied,  ”being a dad”.  It can’t get any simpler than that.

New York Times Tribute

Legacy.com Tribute

Light a Candle

Montclair 9/11 Memorial

September 11th is a new historical event for a country that is hundreds of years old, and outstrips such events as the burning of Atlanta, or the San Francisco fire and earthquake, or even Hurricane Katrina.

That day struck the spirit of America, that spirit which now charges on, witout flinching, to show the world we cannot be brought to our knees.

Today, it is my privilege to remember, no, it is my duty, as an American citizen to honor… Michael James Stewart.  Please join me, along with Project 2,996 in remembering the victims of 9/11.

Follow on Facebook and Twitter hashtag project2996 and project 2,996.

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