Local Couple Volunteers to Remember 9/11

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, Lauren Burns, the daughter of Ellen and Doug Burns, was jogging in lower Manhattan when she witnessed the attacks on the World Trade Center. The Burns’ son Michael and daughter-in-law were also in Manhattan that day.

Doug Burns heard news of the attacks at his office in Summit, N.J. and panicked, knowing that both of his children were in Manhattan. Fortunately, their children returned to their New Jersey home safely.

"Our story is that both of our kids made it out of the city," Doug said.

To pay tribute to those who lost their lives on that tragic day, the husband-and-wife team now volunteer their time at the museum: Ellen, as a docent, and Doug, as a visitor services volunteer.

Ellen, who has been a part of the docent program since before the museum opened, said being a part of the museum has been meaningful on many different levels.

"The interaction with the people brings us all together," Ellen said. "Whether it is a visitor from India or from Brooklyn, everyone has a story to tell. It's a very bonding experience."

For Doug, it's the inspiring and rewarding feeling the museum brings to both the visitors and to himself that has made his volunteer experience so unique.

"People come here and can't believe how vital this city is, especially the downtown area and how it has been rebuilt," Doug said. "There is a positive and uplifting side to the museum that really shows the resiliency of the city."

The couple, who live in the Seaport area of Manhattan, walks to the museum together before their shifts.

"It gives us a lot to talk about and gives us another common ground. We share our experiences and learn from one another," Doug said.

Both Doug and Ellen enjoy interacting with both the visitors and volunteers of the museum.

"This place is so alive and a part of these people," Doug said. "In this life we are all connected,” Ellen said. “The stories people tell will always connect us, and that comes across in this museum more than any shape or form.”

Learn more about volunteering at the Memorial and Museum here.

By Deena Farrell, 9/11 Memorial Communications Intern