23. 9/11 Response: Operation Yellow Ribbon
When American airspace closed after the September 11 attacks, tiny Gander, Newfoundland, suddenly received 38 diverted flights carrying 6,700 stranded passengers. Residents opened their homes, and schools became shelters. Similar scenes played out across Canada as 224 flights found refuge. Canadians provided food, clothing, shelter, and comfort during America’s darkest hour. The Gander story inspired “Come From Away,” a Broadway musical celebrating this international friendship.
