By Pilar Hemry

With the anniversary of 9/11 around the corner, I find myself thinking back, as I’m sure all of us tend to do; where we were, what we were doing, how it all felt close up or from across the world. We never want to forget those that perished on that tragic day. I also find myself looking for stories about others involved, search and rescue, and those that made it out alive.

This is one of so many stories about our 4-legged heroes. This is Roselle, and a Tale of Trust & Bravery on that fateful day.

On September 11, 2001, Roselle, a dedicated guide dog, and her blind owner, Michael Hingson, found themselves in an extraordinary situation. As the world changed around them, their bond and Roselle’s exceptional training were put to the ultimate test. Roselle, a Labrador Retriever, demonstrated courage and unwavering focus, leading her owner out of the chaos that ensued in the World Trade Center.

Roselle was born on March 12, 1998, in San Rafael, California, at the Guide Dogs for the Blind. Raised by Kay and Ted Stern in Santa Barbara, she returned to San Rafael for her formal training as a guide dog. Roselle met Michael Hingson on November 22, 1999, and became his fifth guide dog. The partnership between Roselle and Hingson was marked by mutual trust and companionship.

On the morning of 9/11/2001, the day began like any other for Hingson and Roselle. They were on the 78th floor of Tower 1 of the World Trade Center when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the building. The impact occurred fifteen floors above them, and Roselle, who had been asleep under Hingson’s desk, immediately sprang into action. Amidst the smoke, confusion, and horrible noise, Roselle remained calm, guiding Hingson to stairwell B.

Roselle’s training and composure were critical during their descent down 1,463 steps. As they made their way down, they encountered firefighters ascending to assist those trapped above. Despite the urgency, Roselle paused to greet the rescuers, showcasing her calm demeanor. The descent took over an hour, and as they exited the tower, Tower 2 collapsed, sending debris flying. Hingson later recounted that while everyone around them panicked, Roselle stayed focused on her job, as she was trained.

What was life like after you ask? Following the harrowing experience, Roselle and Hingson returned home. Roselle’s ability to switch back to normalcy was evident as she began playing with Hingson’s retired guide dog, Linnie. This behavior highlighted her remarkable resilience.

Hingson’s career path shifted after 9/11. From a computer salesman, he transitioned to a role as Public Affairs Director for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Roselle and Hingson became well-known, appearing on television shows like Larry King Live and participating in the 2002 Rose Parade.

There were some health challenges afterwards. In 2004, Roselle was diagnosed with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, a condition managed with medication. However, by March 2007, the medication began affecting her kidneys, leading to her retirement. Despite her health issues, Roselle continued to live with Hingson, who received a new guide dog named Africa.

Roselle’s Legacy

Roselle passed away on June 26, 2011, after being diagnosed with a stomach ulcer. To honor her memory, Hingson wrote Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero and established Roselle’s Dream Foundation. This foundation aims to help vision-impaired individuals engage more fully in everyday life.

Roselle’s bravery did not go unrecognized. She, along with another guide dog, Salty, received the Dickin Medal from the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals. The medal, often referred to as the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross, acknowledged their courage in leading their owners to safety during the 9/11 attacks. Roselle was also posthumously named American Hero Dog of the Year in 2011 by the American Humane Society.

Michael Hingson continues to share Roselle’s story, emphasizing the extraordinary bond between guide dogs and their partners. Their story was featured in the podcast “This is Love,” where Hingson recounted their experiences during and after 9/11. There is also a song titled “Roselle,” written by Michael Gaither, that celebrates her life and heroism.

The story of Roselle and Michael Hingson is a powerful testament to the bond between guide dogs and their partners. Roselle’s bravery and dedication during one of the darkest days in American history highlight the incredible capabilities of guide dogs, and the profound impact they have on the lives of those they assist.

Roselle’s legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the extraordinary heroism found in our four-legged companions.