The 2,996 Project: Never Forget Them

I'm participant 1764 for the 2,996 Project I'm remembering Frank Salvaterra:

I only know the most basic information about Frank Salvaterra. His name, his age, a little about his family, where he worked, and most tragically how he died. He was born in Brooklyn and attended the Bronx High School of Science, Boston University, and New York University. Frank was one our neighbors, our fellow Americans who died at the World Trade Center five years ago. He was 41, and married with three children. He was a partner at Sandler O'Neill & Partners. According to those who knew him, he lived a well balanced life. “He always had time for his children and friends and never missed a birthday, school event or social activity that was important to his wife Sally and their children..." said his father-in-law. His children are twins Gabrielle and Isabelle, and Christian.

I don't know what the morning was like for Frank. I can only guess it was the same as it was for the rest of us. Ordinary; with an “I love you” and kiss goodbye for his wife and kids. Then off into a cool, clear blue, perfect autumn morning. I think that's the most maddening thing for me - the morning was so damn ordinary. Then, it quickly became anything but. Frank was in his office on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center when American Airlines flight 175 hit the building between floors 78 and 84.

It doesn’t seem that Frank was able to call home like so many others. So we remember Frank Salvaterra as he was, a man who loved his family, a good friend, our neighbor and our fellow American. He was a man who was too young to die, on an ordinary morning when all he did was go to work.

Frank’s obituary concluded with the following request: “If you wish to join in celebrating Frank's life and carry on as he did in his life, please do an act of kindness for someone in need.” I intend to do just that in his honor. Please join me in remembering him that way.