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Triangle-Area Man Recounts Being In World Trade Center On 9/11

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RALEIGH, N.C. — As the nation remembers those who died on Sept. 11, 2001, the day has a special meaning for one man in the Triangle.

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John Cerquira was 22 years old and working on the 81st floor of Tower 1 on that fateful day.

"You saw some pretty awful things waiting on the ground," Cerquira said.

Just minutes before escaping from the World Trade Center, he helped save a handicapped woman from the burning building.

"We put her in an emergency wheelchair that was put in the office after the first attack and we brought her down the stairs," he said.

Gov. Mike Easley recognized Cerquira, and countless others, for their bravery. Cerquira said the events five years ago changed him forever.

"I try to enjoy my life as much as possible. I try to spend a lot of time with family and friends. I try to enjoy every day," he said.

Cerquira said he is writing a book about the 9/11 experience. He said he plans to donate a portion of the proftis to charity.

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