President Donald Trump held a ceremony at the White House Ellipse to honor individuals who served during the September 11 terrorist attacks. During the event, the President posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Welles Crowther, a civilian who is credited with saving as many as 18 lives during the attacks. Crowther became widely known as the 'man in the red bandana' due to the distinctive accessory he wore while assisting people to safety in the World Trade Center.

In addition to the Medal of Freedom, the President announced that the U.S. Coast Guard will commission a new fast-response cutter named in honor of Jeffrey Palazzo. Palazzo was a Coast Guard reservist and a New York City firefighter who also died while responding to the events of September 11. The ceremony served to highlight the contributions of both individuals, focusing on their service and sacrifice during the national tragedy. While Fox News focused specifically on the Medal of Freedom award for Crowther, the Washington Examiner provided a broader report that included the announcement regarding the Coast Guard vessel named for Palazzo.