Hundreds honor security guard killed in New York office tower shooting

## More Than Just a Security Guard: Remembering Aland Etienne

The security lights still cast long shadows across the entrance of the Midtown Manhattan office tower, but the feeling there is different now. Gone is the reassuring presence of Aland Etienne, the security guard who was tragically killed there last month. His passing has left a void, a stark reminder of the humanity often overlooked in the daily hustle and bustle of city life.

While news reports detailed the incident, focusing on the crime itself, it’s essential to remember Aland as a person, a husband, a father, and a valued member of the community. He wasn’t just someone in a uniform; he was a man with a life, dreams, and connections that stretched far beyond the revolving doors he guarded each day.

Those who knew Aland describe him as a dedicated employee, always reliable and with a ready smile. He was known for his friendly demeanor and willingness to help anyone who needed it, whether it was assisting a lost tourist or simply holding the door open for someone juggling a pile of packages. In a city often characterized by anonymity, Aland was a beacon of warmth and genuine human connection.

“He always had a kind word for everyone,” recounted a tenant of the building who wished to remain anonymous. “He remembered your name, asked about your day. It’s those small things that made him special. He wasn’t just doing his job; he cared.”

The impact of Aland’s loss is felt deeply not only by his family but also by his colleagues and the countless individuals he encountered each day. His story serves as a poignant reminder that behind every uniform, behind every service job, there’s a human being with a rich and complex life.

Let’s remember Aland Etienne, not just as a victim of senseless violence, but as the kind, dedicated, and caring individual he was. His memory should inspire us to appreciate the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes, making our lives a little bit brighter, one smile and one act of kindness at a time.