The Moth Podcast: "Steve Osborne: Takedown Day"

Host: The Moth
Storyteller: Steve Osborne
Release Date: September 11, 2012
Duration: Approximately 15 minutes of content

Introduction

In the emotionally charged episode titled "Takedown Day," Steve Osborne, a retired New York City police officer, shares a poignant true story that intertwines his professional life with one of the most tragic days in American history—September 11, 2001. Through his narrative, Steve offers a deeply personal perspective on duty, sacrifice, and the human connections that sustain us in times of crisis.

Setting the Scene

Steve Osborne begins by introducing himself and his role within the NYPD. Having served as a lieutenant in the Detective Bureau for 20 years, he recounts one of his most significant cases:

Steve Osborne (02:33): "I was a New York city cop for 20 years... We were dealing crack, and they were mostly Bloods, and they were terrorizing the whole neighborhood."

This case involved dismantling a major drug operation in a Harlem housing project, leading to the identification and arrest of 52 key suspects—a considerable achievement in law enforcement.

Takedown Day

The narrative shifts to the anticipation of "Takedown Day," the culmination of a year-long operation to eradicate the drug crews:

Steve Osborne (06:15): "I had picked this Tuesday for takedown day. We were going to execute 17 search warrants all at the same time."

Steve describes the adrenaline-fueled preparations and the excitement of finally seeing tangible results from months of intensive work. The prospect of a press conference and the recognition it would bring added to the day's significance.

The Moment of 9/11

On the morning of Takedown Day, as Steve prepares for what he expects to be the highlight of his career, an unforeseen tragedy unfolds:

Steve Osborne (10:45): "I turn on the TV and... there was smoke coming out of the World Trade Center. A plane flew into the Trade Center. The second plane hit."

Caught between his duty as a police officer and his role as a husband, Steve faces an agonizing decision. The emotional turmoil is palpable as he tries to comfort his wife during the horrifying realization that nothing is truly alright.

Steve Osborne (12:30): "I reached out and grabbed her in a bear hug... I realized that nothing's alright. Nothing's ever gonna be all right."

Despite the personal anguish, Steve feels an overwhelming imperative to respond to the crisis, embodying the professional detachment sworn by law enforcement officers.

Responding to the Crisis

Steve recounts the frantic efforts to mobilize his team amidst the chaos of 9/11:

Steve Osborne (14:05): "I grabbed her by the face and... I told her, 'I gotta go.' She nodded. She knew I had a job to do."

As the city descends into emergency, Steve and his team race to the scene. The unprecedented scale of the disaster is evident as he navigates through barricades and deserted streets, heading towards the burning towers.

Steve Osborne (16:20): "I looked downtown, saw the smoke pouring out of the Trade Center. It dawned on me this was going to be the biggest day of my career."

Throughout the response, Steve emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and leadership to ensure the safety and effectiveness of his team.

Emotional Impact and Reflection

Days into the aftermath, exhaustion and emotional numbness set in. However, a simple act of kindness unexpectedly breaks through Steve's hardened exterior:

Steve Osborne (17:45): "I grabbed a Happy Meal from McDonald's... Inside was a homemade card from a five-year-old kid that said, 'You're my hero. Thank you.'"

This gesture profoundly affects Steve, rekindling his suppressed emotions and reaffirming his connection to humanity amidst devastation.

Steve Osborne (18:10): "That was making me start to feel something again that kind of like broke through that wall and made me start to feel like a human being again."

Reflecting on this moment, Steve underscores the profound impact that even small acts of compassion can have on those who dedicate their lives to public service.

Conclusion

Steve Osborne's "Takedown Day" is a heartfelt testament to the complexities of duty and personal sacrifice. Through his vivid storytelling, he captures the harrowing experience of responding to 9/11 while balancing his responsibilities as a husband and a police officer. The story ultimately highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the unexpected moments of grace that provide solace in the darkest times.

Steve Osborne (Final Thoughts): "Thank you."

Key Takeaways:

• Duty vs. Personal Life: Steve's struggle to balance his professional obligations with his personal life during a national crisis.
• Emotional Resilience: The necessity for law enforcement officers to compartmentalize emotions to perform effectively.
• Human Connection: The profound impact of small acts of kindness in restoring humanity amidst tragedy.

Notable Quotes:

• "You build a wall between yourself and your feelings." (Steve Osborne, 07:45)
• "I gotta go to work, I gotta get my guys, and I gotta get downtown." (Steve Osborne, 13:50)
• "That was making me start to feel something again that kind of like broke through that wall and made me start to feel like a human being again." (Steve Osborne, 17:55)

This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices made by first responders and the enduring human connections that provide strength during unimaginable events.