| CAPTAIN WILLIAM THOMPSON New York Office of Court Administration | |
 | Court Officers are assigned to the New York State Unified Court System. Capt. William Thompson, a 27-year veteran of the force, led 25 of his fellow Court Officers to the World Trade Center on 9/11. Despite the growing danger, he stayed in the South Tower until the very end, moving people to safety and helping the injured. |
| A fellow Court Officer who knew Capt. Thompson well said he was, "...the ultimate example of what we all aspire to be.... It came as no surprise that you responded to that last call. Duty to others came before duty to self. We all stand a little taller because of your supreme sacrifice. You will always remain a legend." Another comrade praised this hero as "a real man." "He was sharp, smart and a respected leader. A true gentleman, he made it to the top the old fashioned way, he earned it." All 25 Court Officers were injured that day, and three died — including their leader, Capt. Thompson. | |