On the fateful morning of September 11, 2001, Brian Sweeney, a former U.S. Navy pilot and defense contractor, boarded United Airlines Flight 175, bound for Los Angeles. What began as a routine business trip turned into a national tragedy when the flight was hijacked and ultimately crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center. In his final moments, Brian’s actions created a lasting legacy of love and resilience.
Realizing the dire situation, Brian used a seat-back phone to leave a voicemail for his wife, Julie Sweeney Roth. With remarkable composure, he said: “Jules, this is Brian. Listen, I’m on an airplane that’s been hijacked. If things don’t go well, and it’s not looking good, I just want you to know I absolutely love you. I want you to do good, go have good times. Same to my parents and everybody. I totally love you, and I’ll see you when you get there.” These words, spoken in a moment of unimaginable fear, were a testament to his selflessness and unshakable love for his family.
Julie, who was teaching high school that morning, was pulled from her class to hear the devastating news from her mother-in-law. Later that day, upon returning home, she discovered Brian’s voicemail. Though heartbroken, Julie found solace in the calmness and clarity of her husband’s final message. In an interview, she reflected, “When I got it, it was just so Brian. I’m thankful for it. So thankful for that message. It’s powerful. He made very powerful statements with that message.”
Over the years, Julie chose to share Brian’s voicemail publicly, believing its poignant message could bring comfort to others who experienced loss on 9/11. His words have since become an enduring symbol of the humanity and love that persisted amid the tragedy of that day.
Julie has rebuilt her life with incredible grace, remarrying and raising two children. She remains connected to the legacy of 9/11 by volunteering at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where Brian’s voicemail is preserved as part of its collection. Through her work, she honors not only Brian’s memory but also the resilience of those affected by the attacks.
Brian Sweeney’s final words continue to inspire countless people, reminding the world of the profound love that even tragedy cannot extinguish. His story serves as a powerful example of how, even in moments of despair, the human spirit can shine through.