Jim Berger
From September 11 Memories
James Berger, 44 years old, worked as a Senior Vice President at Aon Corporation, an insurance firm that employed 1,100 people in the south tower.
After the first jet hit the north tower he could have made the easy decision to leave while there was still time, but he stayed behind to coordinate his company’s evacuation. His unselfish sense of duty was apparent when a crowd of evacuees tried to drag him into an elevator. He firmly stated, “No. I’m going back”. James Berger was killed when the south tower collapsed. Thanks to his efforts only 175 out of 1,100 Aon employees perished in the attacks.
He left behind his wife Suzanne and three children; Nicholas, Alex and Christian.
Bruce Springsteen Honors 9/11 Victims
Bruce Springsteen read James Berger’s obituary in the NY Times and saw that it mentioned how much James loved his music. That inspired Bruce to give his widow, Suzanne Berger, a phone call to offer his condolences.
Bruce also created a specially made video of “Thunder Road”, which was Jim’s favorite song. It was dedicated to the Berger family and was played at the memorial service. The next year Bruce penned a song called, “You’re Missing” to honor the Bergers.
Bruce stirred a bit of controversy by dedicating a whole album to the victims of the 9/11 attacks. He was accused of profiting from their suffering.
The Berger family and many other families strongly objected to these accusations. His actions were greatly appreciated by Suzanne Berger.
