Great Men: Wesley Autrey, Subway Savior
50 Comments Published by Joel January 3rd, 2007 in Great Men. Share This
Wesley Autrey [pictured] jumped onto the tracks of a NYC subway 1 train yesterday on the body of a 20-year-old man who had accidentally fallen onto the tracks, pressing them both into a foot-deep space underneath the wheels of the train.
Five cars rolled overhead before the train stopped, the cars passing inches from his head, smudging his blue knit cap with grease. Mr. Autrey heard onlookers’ screams. “We’re O.K. down here,” he yelled, “but I’ve got two daughters up there. Let them know their father’s O.K.” He heard cries of wonder, and applause.
A Man Down, a Train Arriving, and a Stranger Makes a Choice [NYTimes]
Update: It looks like Autrey is getting his just reward. [Reuters]
Now that right there is what you call a real life superman.
selflessness DOES exist! my faith in humanity is restored …
Sweet crap!
That really warms the heart.
You know, I’ve seen this in Hollywood movies… I didn’t realize it would actually work.
This is the kind of person you’d like to think you’d be if this situation unfolded in front of you. Good to see that people are capable of this kind of greatness.
I’m fairly sure that in many/most of the NYC lines, it actually wouldn’t work. The space between the rails fills up over the years with (grand) funk and trash.
Absolutely fantastic, give that man a medal.
Wesley is a man who did the right thing and is a hero regardless of what he says! What the Film school did in return is also the right thing to do. For a change it shows that the human spirit is alive and well and can give us all hope! I just wish I had Wesley’s email to congradulate him personally………Outstanding!!!!!!!!!!
What an heroic act, from a very humble man. He said on the news that the real heroes are in Iraq and he just did something we should all do. He is an inspiration and a reasurance that there are still Americans who would give their lives for complete strangers in our own land. His story is going up in my classroom. Like Larry said it would be great to have his email address to thank him personally.
Is there anyway to contact Mr. Autrey? What a wonderful human being!!!! His acts of courage shows all of us that HEROS do exist. Mr. Trump, I THANK YOU, for your generous gift to this wonderful human. This is someone that I would put at the top of my list of the one person I’d like to meet. THANK YOU MR. AUTREY FOR YOUR LOVE & CARING FOR YOUR FELLOW MAN……..SUSAN
Wow, Reading this story is probably one of the most heroic stories that I have ever read or heard of. This Gentleman deserves the key to the City of New York, How inspiring,
I cry, everytime I think of this Gentleman’s unselfish desire to help someone.
Good for you Wesley!
Greater love has no man then to lay down his life for his friend. And this HERO did it for a stranger. How awsome is that. GOD bless You Mr Autrey
My heart is warmed by this story. For someone to do something so heroic? That is awesome and makes me believe that there still are good people out in the world today. If I had to read of a story of someone getting run over by a train again (two people in my hometown just got killed after trying to beat a train), I don’t think I would have survived.
God bless Wesley Autrey.
What an Angel!! God Bless You Wesley Autrey. A true American hero!
Woah. My mom and I cannot get over this mans bravery. I was just in NYC last week and thinking back, I cannot picture myself jumping into those tracks. He is the most heroic person i have ever heard of. Does anyone know of a way to send him a letter?
After all this his first words were tell my daughters im ok.
What a person I have tears in my eyes as I type.
I hope he doesnt have to work construction ever again he deserves more than that.
what a man!! mr autrey, i’m inspired
i don’t know you and i don’t know the man you saved but from the deepest of our hearts, me and my family would like to thank you. thank you again. i hope i will be able to meet you and serve you someday.
I worked with Wesley (Wes) at the Fort George Post Office in Manhattan back in 1986 – 1990. He was always a great guy. I just never knew I was working with an angel!! Hey Wes!! You are FANTABULOUS man, for doing the unthinkable and the unbelievable!! GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS!!! Eddie C. (your former co-worker)
Wesley Autrey represents everything that even the best of us wish and hope we have inside of ourselves.
I hope his example gives us all the courage to do something heroic, no matter how small — even if only opening the door for someone, or giving someone a smile, or helping carry someone’s load, or helping someone pay a bill or pursue a dream, get a job, or donate blood, even if the only good you can do is applaud the heroics of Wesley Autrey.
As to saving a life and putting one’s own life at risk — wow– what a soldier–what a good samaritan. Good show!
We hope that there exists a love, and a courage to rise to the occassion of our fellow man deep down inside each of us but most of us doubt it is there, and many of us know that it is simply not there.
And we remember all the other unsung heros in our life when we think of Wesley Autrey– soldiers of good, big and small, that no one is going to be talking about today, those countless who have died or wounded, soldiers and heros – many who have been long forgotten. We think of those heros who have died or been wounded while trying to save others, and those who will die or be wounded tomorrow and in years to come.
I’m sure Wesley Autrey is not trying to make people judge themselves- not asking us to examine our own reserves of courage. Nor is he saying all of us need to do what he did, but his act of heroism and bravery does make those of us who would have turned thier heads and walked away, either admit to themselves that they are a lesser man — or do what many have done and simply justify this all by calling Wesley Autrey a “Superman”. Something beyond what a normal man would ever do. I’d like to think that we all could be as heroic, but I know in reality that he is not Superman, it’s just that we are Lesserman.
There was no doubt but that he put his own life at risk… to help another — a complete stranger — and that few of us would do the same even given the same situation.
And Donald Trump, giving him $10,000 — Wow! You know Donald Trump didn’t make his millions by giving it away so you know how rare this really is! (Unless of course, you believe that Donald Trump is getting more than $10,000 worth of marketing out of his gift in which case he needs to shell out a little more or do this type of gift giving anonomously.)
Personally, I am thinking he’s an Angel — and like the rest of you I now feel the sudden need to know all about Wesley Autrey’s entire life which seems to have all culminated to this moment… simply fascinating– and you have to wonder if the “film student” who fell on the tracks isn’t going to be making a film about this whole thing…wouldn’t that be a kick.
It’s nice that he will become a Millionaire overnight– he deserves it. Book rights, movie rights, heck- he could be Mayor of New York or President of the US! He would be elected! — Isn’t Life Grand!
wow!!!! remarkable… God Bless this human being.. God Bless you Mr. Westley..
Wonderful story! Wonderful man! I hope a lot of rewards come his way. He deserves them. As others have said, restores your faith in fellow man. And the little girls are so adorable. Am glad they’ll get scholarships.
God bless Mr. Autrey!
whats even greater about it is this is a normal black man saving the life of a white man. i just love stuff like that
This is an incredible story that made me really cry. This is a such a powerful story that brings us all back to ask ourselves the question…would I risk my life for a stranger? There are heroes in this life that we overlook everyday. Not quite so heroic as Wesley Autrey…but every day heroes in a less daring way. I had to ask my self; how much to I unselfishly give for the sake of others? God keeps a record of what we do and that day, Wesley earned his crown. I wish him all the blessings that life holds for such a hero.
Incredibly compassionate. Awesomely inspiring for me in this New Year. This guy is – Cool.
I cried like a baby when I read about Mr. Autrey’s heroic act. He has strengthened my faith in human nature. Thank you Mr. Autrey and God Bless You.
wesley is a brave man, no doubt, however there are a few things people overlook everyday. there are many people who get upo in the middle of the night and within only a couple of minutes they are in burning buildings saving life and property. i am not talking about career firefighters i am talking abut the volunteer who sacrifices countless hours, days, weeks, months and years performing miracles and unreal things. granted this man is a hero for never being trained in rescue and his instant heroics do warrant some form of recognition, however, the next time you see the volunteer fireman or ambulance personell, do thank them for their everyday heroics. Also, i have worked with Wes on a construction site last year and he is a hard worker and is dedicated to his children.
Everone has said it well. Your selfless act has made me question if i’m doing enough for others. I see that i’m not the only one inspired and that is encouraging.
I sat in McDonalds here in Sydney Australia & read this story in our newspaper. Wow! I was awestruck! My children were with me and I read it to them and explained to them that this is precisely what Jesus would do. They too, were awestruck!
This man has a touch of God on his life, and understands what it is to die for your fellow man. So this man knows God!
I will probably never meet you in this life, Sir. But I will remember your name & find you when we get to Heaven and give you a great big hug.
May your tribe increase! God bless you & your family. You are a true hero.
Becky.
PS. the article is up on our fridge – and will be for some time.
Andrew Ottowa said, “I hope he doesnt have to work construction ever again he deserves more than that.”
This is really nice story, and I really don’t want to be negative to anyone, but I am also a construction man, like Mr. Autrey. In our work, we are used to assessing situations and taking PHYSICAL action. I would hope that, faced with a similar situation, Mr. Ottowa’s first reaction would not be to send someone an e-mail.
Construction people are proud of what we do. It is a job to be aspired to. I am sure that Mr. Autrey is proud of what he does for a living and does not need to be pitied for it.
It seems that millions of other people had the same experience that I had while reading this story– fighting back inexplicable tears and that rush of emotion from the heart.
Mr. Autrey is the truest manifestation of a hero I’ve seen in a long time, and let’s remember that he is just one person. He was raised by at least one parent who instilled integrity and selflessness in him, taught by at least one or two teachers who carefully guided his intellect and vision through those difficult years we all encounter in adolescence.
As parents and teachers, social workers and coaches, we all have the responsibility to do the same for our children. Let us admire Mr. Autrey for his display of courage, and use the gift of his act to inspire the courage and perseverance needed raise the future citizens of our world.
M.
p.s. another angel: http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/us/20070102_DANA_FEATURE/blocker.html?th&emc=th
What a wonderful act. To without second thought offer your life to save another. My hat is off to you! It’s my hope that as the board members of time magazine begin the process of selecting the person of the year for 2007, that they remember this unselfish act. This one act represents all that each of us should be. For if we were, there would be no crime, no hate, no concen of race, religion or social status. We would live in a world where respect of fellow man was not just a topic discussed at dinner parties.
Imagine, if each of us would quickly give our lives to help a stranger of a different race, a different religion or different social status. How little would these differences be. At present they are HUGE! But not to Mr. Autrey, he simply saw a fellow human being in need and reacted.
Cities spend millions of dollars on parades when their sports teams win the big one. We take off from work to cheer them. It’s in my opinion that this one act has given more hope to millions than any in recent times. New York City owes Mr. Autrey more than a medal, for attitudes have beed changed by ths act, more people are now willing to step up and out for another. Mr. Autrey should not simply run the talk show circuit them be forgotten, he should somehow remain a symbol of what this country should be about.
Once again, I take my hat off to you Mr. Autrey, because of you I too aspire to be a better human being.
Great sensation here in Rome, Italy. An anonymous construction worker does an existential stunt, whose brave altruism makes of him a legend that restores faith in umanity. All my thanks Sir, for being around.
Riccardo Romano
When I first read the story, I was in awe of this man’s heroics. Then, I started to think of his two daughters and family and thought what if? I immediately rejected this negative energy for this story is about hope and sacrifice. I am so thankful to God that he gave Mr. Autrey the courage to act and the strength to survive.
I cried for joy when i read this…..There is no better way to describe this. It has restored trust to humanity
Wesley Autrey,
To think that you handed your two beloved children to a complete stranger and then risked your life to assist another person without a thought of your own safety. You, my friend, are a man to be honored and respected. I have seen the stories on TV and in print and am always brought near tears thinking of your bravery. I wish you and your family all the best. I have been reading the posts here and you have seemed to restore the faith in humanity to a great many of us. That alone is a heroic act….
J.K. (San Diego, CA)
I immediately started crying…it touched me so deeply..
God bless you Mr. Autrey, thank you for existing! your an inspiration for all of us!
Great job man! You know I would like to think there are a LOT of people out there like you, and I really believe there are given the opportunity. We all the light inside us to be a humble and good person and a bringer of good and humility. You sir did the right thing not because it gave you fame but because it gave you a huge purpose in this life. You have for the rest of your life the gift of having saved a life that only a small portion of the world population can vouch for. You know I only hope this story reaches the remote areas of the world and into the Middle east where I think more of this kind of selfless, unhateful, caring nature would radiate like the sun.
Yes, firefighters, policemen, soldiers, volunteers – they all are heroes. But Wesley was not supposed to jump out of the middle of a hundret people onto the tracks. He decided to leave his two children behind – probably dying the next second to save this young man´s life. Thank God that the kids still have their father. Wesley deserves it to be independent and without any financial problems to the end of his life. More than Brittney Spears or P. Diddy! What a hero.
Wesley Autrey is a hero in the truest definition. Perhaps he has redefined hero.
I was a Volunteer Firefighter for 10 years in a my home town. During this time I commuted everyday to NYC and took the subways. Many times I stared at the tracks and tried to figure out if there was enough room, what would I do if someone next to me fell. Its pretty nasty down there and there is the ever present third rail.
Wesley works in construction and knows all to well the risks.
I would like to think I would do the same thing but I do believe that Wesley is a better man than I.
I cannot say anything new that everyone else has already said about Mr. Autrey. What I will say is that if I EVER get into trouble like that, I want him around!!!!
OR someone heroic just like him.
An amazing story that inspired everybody around the world. It openes our hearts and propelled us to find our humanity. I believe, humans have a humblness gene deep inside the heart. But we are all depressed by power, prejudice, livelihood, beliefs, etc.,
Yearning for humanity.
i like this story. very simple, yet full of beauty. a simple man, yet a real hero. a simple did, but full of courage and bravery. also good job donald trump for recognising the heroic did, i now really respect you. also shame on you playboy and hef, for trying to get publiciti out of story and just giving away free playboy subscription.
Wesley Autrey’s selfless act is a truly uplifting & inspiring story. Thank you Wesley for showing everybody how one person can make a difference.
This is one news story that I hope that will be remembered for a very long time!
A true hero in an age of despair.
No one will ever truly understand what this guy was preparing to sacrifice to save a fellow human.
He should be given the freedom of the city and an oval office.
My personal thanks.
MikeyB
What a gift! I feel proud to be a part of this great country. Mr. Westly is a blessing! “THANKS”
What an incredible man! Mr. Autrey gives new meaning to the phrase “human being.” May God bless him forever.
WESLEY, GOD BLESS YOU!! YOU ARE ONE BRAVE MAN. I DON’T KNOW YOU PERSONALLY, BUT I DO KNOW YOUR NEPHEWS…DARIUS, POP, AND ELIAS. I AM ENGAGED TO MALIK SOLER. GOD BLESS
I would like Mr,Autrey mailing address or an e-mail address so I can send a Millstone Township,NJ teachers award from my second grade class.
Thank you,Joanne E.Schiumo,second grade teacher Millstone Township Elementary School New Jersey.732-431-3854,e-mail poorwes2002@yahoo.com
way to go aw, that was really nice what you did. I know you remember me.(norfolk state university norfolk va) we are proud of you here in virginia.