Remembering 9/11: Patriots Football and the Andruzzi Family

The third of four brothers, Joe Andruzzi was no stranger to hearing cheers on a regular basis. He was an offensive lineman for the Patriots and played football in front of raucous crowds each autumn and winter weekend. Despite seeing himself as just a ”regular guy,” he was the high-profile brother in the family. 

However, on this day, he would have the honor of sharing the stage with his three brothers. This time, they were the heroes and Joe could not have been more proud.

In 2001, Joe’s brothers Jimmy, Billy and Marc Andruzzi were all New York City firefighters. The uncertainty and conditions his siblings were facing on that fateful Tuesday gripped the Patriots’ lineman with fear and panic. Each of his brothers had been among the first responders, and he feared for their safety, as well as their lives. 

After six hours, the Andruzzi family was thankfully able to confirm the safety of all three brothers. The brave firefighters had defied the odds, amidst the chaos in Manhattan. For Joe, finally reuniting with his brothers and family sharply clarified that which mattered most in times of tragedy. The feelings of distress and concern morphed into an overwhelming sense of relief and gratitude.

Twelve days later, Jimmy, Billy, and Marc stood strong at the 50-yard line inside Foxboro Stadium. Surrounded by over 60,000 supporters, the Andruzzi brothers were among the first responders honored during the team’s pregame ceremonies. In the minutes leading up to the kickoff, Joe joined his brothers by running onto the playing field. Proudly holding an American flag in each hand; the Andruzzis’ camaraderie served as a reminder to all in attendance (as well as those watching at home) that our Flag would never fall. It was a moment that represented determination, honor, and unity — the same values by which the Andruzzi family had always lived.

Tears were in nearly every eye as the Andruzzi brothers embraced at midfield. At that moment, it was not about the game, nor was it about winning. It was not even about patriotism. It was as basic as appreciating the love that exists among family members. 

The Andruzzis do not consider themselves heroes. They would be the first to say they were just ‘doing their jobs.’ Still, the truth is that they did perform heroic actions on September 11 in helping to save lives. On September 23, they provided perhaps their greatest lesson. They taught us to never take those that you love for granted.

“We Are All Patriots”

Much has been written about the Patriots improbable run to the Super Bowl that year. The story of a then-untested backup quarterback named Tom Brady (replacing injured starter Drew Bledsoe) and leading his team to their first ever Super Bowl Championship has become a near-mythic folktale in New England. 

As confetti fell from the ceiling of the Louisiana Superdome, Patriots owner Robert Kraft realized the victory over the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI was for an audience much larger than his players and coaching staff. As he accepted the Lombardi trophy on the team’s behalf, he reminded everyone of the very values which so many brave men and women (both in our armed forces, as well as our first responders) bravely defend each and every day.

“Spirituality, faith, and democracy are the cornerstones of our country,” Kraft proclaimed. “We are all Patriots. And tonight, the Patriots are World Champions.”

However, that message of fortitude and hope is best defined by the actions that took place on Sept. 23, 2001. It wasn’t about Super Bowl titles, yet. In fact, most Patriots fans had yet to even dream of the journey they were about to take with their favorite football team.

Instead, fans and players cheered, in unison, as a sea of American flags flowed through Foxboro Stadium. 

The loudspeakers played “America the Beautiful and “God Bless America.” Red, white and blue banners, which read “United We Stand,” were on display in every end zone,

Most importantly, the loving bond of a family like the Andruzzis provided an indelible reminder of the American spirit and faith we so desperately needed.

For one solemn, yet poignant Sunday in September, we were ALL Patriots.