Twenty-five years ago, Shawn Matheson found himself straddling two distinct worlds. On one hand, as a firefighter at Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services, he witnessed the harrowing collapse of the twin towers in New York City, a moment that struck a deeper chord with him and his comrades due to their profession. Simultaneously, as an officer in the reserves, Matheson had an intuitive sense of the unfolding events.
Reflecting on the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Matheson, like many others, recalled the profound impact the attacks had, resulting in the loss of nearly 3,000 lives, including 24 Canadian citizens. His dual role as a firefighter and a soldier has heightened his awareness of the sacrifices and challenges inherent in both professions, leading him to volunteer for the mental health non-profit organization, Wounded Warriors Canada.
Coincidentally, on the day of the attacks, Matheson’s station was called upon to relieve firefighters near Pearson International Airport as U.S. airspace shut down, diverting flights across Canada. The attacks occurred on a Tuesday, which also coincided with parade night for his reserve unit, the Governor General’s Horse Guards (GGHG) based in Toronto, creating a surreal atmosphere.
In the aftermath of the tragic events, Matheson, alongside fellow firefighters, traveled to New York to pay their respects at funerals and offer support as remains were recovered from the wreckage. The camaraderie among firefighters from various departments, both in Canada and the U.S., was evident as they stood in solidarity amidst the devastation.
As Canada’s involvement in the Afghan war deepened, Matheson assumed command of the GGHG, witnessing the deployment of 14 soldiers from his unit to Kandahar. Thankfully, all personnel returned safely, underscoring the gravity of military service.
On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Matheson participated in a Wounded Warriors fundraising bike ride through historic Canadian First World War battlefields in Belgium, prompting him to reflect on the advancements in support services for military personnel and first responders since the tragic events. He emphasized the critical need for acknowledging the impact of trauma on first responders, highlighting the daily battles they face without certainty of what the next shift may bring.
For Matheson, the enduring lesson of 9/11 lies in recognizing and supporting those who courageously serve on the front lines, confronting trauma and uncertainty each day.
