Remembering 9/11

In an effort to remember the victims of the brutal, murderous assault on the US, people throughout the world are posting today, remembering one person each, one precious life taken for no reason. A complete list is on this web site. This is one tribute:

Gregory E. Rodriguez, 31, White Plains, N.Y.

Assistant Vice President, information security, Cantor Fitzgerald
Confirmed dead, World Trade Center, at/in building

Comments:
08/26/2002 5:46:17 PM

I did not know Gregory. I was terribly saddened by the death of all victims of September 11, including the victims in in Afghanistan. I am impressed and inspired by the courageous response of Gregory’s parents, Phyllis and Orlando Rodriguez, who urged a rational, nonviolent response to the attacks, and as to violent retaliation proclaimed, “not in our son’s name!”

Bob Podzikowski
Oak Park, Michigan

08/27/2002 9:17:44 PM

Greg was my friend for 14 years. While we often didn’t see one another for months, we spoke often and just hearing his voice was enough to know that the next 5, 10, 15 minutes would be entertaining and full of irony and wit. He was capable of turning any difficult situation into one that became humorous and non-stressful. I think about him daily on my ride into Manhattan where you can clearly see the Manhattan skyline on the way into the Lincoln Tunnel. Even after almost one year of time, I often find myself thinking that the phone will ring and my friend Greg will be on the other end of the line, ready to make this difficult situation easier to deal with. You’re sorely missed by your friends and family, Ito.

Sandman

09/10/2002 12:36:47 PM

I think I knew him, he was such a great guy. If I’m not mistaken, he was my neighbour.

Rest in peace!

Angel Pendas

09/11/2002 8:26:41 AM

My younger cousin was a true humanitarian that cared about those we often overlook. Ironically, he would have been the first one to discuss our nation’s policies around the globe and what could be done to peacefully advance any mutually beneficial changes. He was an intelligent man, full of hope, respectful and curious of other cultures. I miss him not only as a beloved family member, but as a man that inspired me to go beyond distrust and seek the truth.

Florence

03/10/2004 2:34:44 PM

I met Gregory only 3 times. That was during my job interviews at Cantor. I did not take a job for personal reasons. He was a great, great guy. Nice person. Tremendous loss for his family and all of us. Rest in peace. You did not go in vain. We shall pay them back for you and all others. Best wishes to your family.

Juan A. Vega, Sr.

08/07/2005 1:39:55 PM

To you Gregory in heaven . As a young child and the son of my wife’s favorite cousin we were fortunate to see you grow into a fine young man. Your wedding to Elizabeth and the happiness of friends and relatives at such a joyous occassion will forever be next to the sad memories of the tragedy and perfidy that took your young and innocent life. After your passing we were blessed with our first grandson. The day my son called me to announce his birth, the event was even happier when he said his name would be Joshua Gregory in remembrance of you. We all miss you and wonder what wonderful things you could have accomplished. Every 9/11 I will pray for your soul and eternal rest. Years will not erase our memories of you.

I met Greg in 1994 at Salomon Brothers … For the next 2 years, we’d learn so much about our lives. We would have debates about politics while drinking ice-cold vodka at a Russian spa. He taught me how to not take the job too seriously and enjoy life everyday. I taught him that first impressions are forever lasting, and to be humble with your knowledge and prosperity.

Mark Simmons, colleague