Number of Participants: 170
Hours Donated: 3
Value of Time Served: $17,743
Event Type: Veterans & Military Families
Activity: Schools
School: East Islip High School
Date: September 11, 2026
Location:
East Islip High School
Redmen Street, Islip Terrace
NY
About:
As East Islip commemorates the 25th anniversary of September 11, the school community is honoring the legacy of Welles Crowther, known as the “Man in the Red Bandanna,” through a series of special Red Bandanna Games.
The week brings together several varsity teams in a shared tribute:
- Tuesday, September 8: Girls Field Hockey and Boys Volleyball
- Wednesday, September 9: Girls Volleyball, Girls Soccer and Boys Football
- Thursday, September 10: Boys Soccer and Girls Gymnastics
Crowther was working in the South Tower of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. A former Boston College lacrosse player, equities trader and volunteer firefighter, he responded to the attacks with extraordinary courage and selflessness. Wearing his signature red bandanna, he repeatedly returned to help others, guiding survivors to safety before ultimately losing his life while continuing his rescue efforts.
Throughout the week of September 8–11, East Islip is honoring Crowther’s legacy while remembering all those who demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness on 9/11. Students, teachers, staff, families and community members are being encouraged to carry his example forward by looking out for one another, stepping up when others need help and recognizing that true leadership is rooted in service.
The initiative also includes a fundraising component. Those who make a donation to the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust at one of the Red Bandanna Week varsity games, or at the middle school or high school, will receive a red bandanna in recognition of their support.
By bringing so many athletic programs together around remembrance, service and leadership, East Islip is helping ensure that Welles Crowther’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation.
