Hundreds honor security guard killed in New York office tower shooting

## More Than a Security Guard: Remembering Aland Etienne and the Value of Every Life

The cold steel and glass of a Manhattan office tower can feel impersonal, but for those who work within its walls, it’s a community. Last month, that community suffered a devastating loss with the tragic death of security guard, Aland Etienne. While headlines may focus on the details of the incident, it’s vital to remember the man behind the badge, the person who greeted employees with a smile and helped keep them safe.

Aland Etienne wasn’t just a security guard; he was a son, a brother, and a member of the New York City community. Though details surrounding the circumstances of his passing remain sensitive, it’s important to shift the focus to his life and the impact he had on those around him. He represented the silent guardians of our city, the essential workers who often go unnoticed but whose presence is crucial to the smooth functioning of everyday life.

Think about it: who is the first face you see when you enter your workplace? Who helps navigate deliveries, directs lost visitors, and stands watch, especially during late hours? Often, it’s the security personnel. Aland Etienne embodied that role, ensuring a safe environment for countless individuals.

His loss serves as a stark reminder of the risks taken by these frontline workers and the vulnerability they face, even in seemingly secure environments. It prompts us to consider the value we place on all human lives, especially those of individuals in service roles.

Instead of dwelling on the tragedy, let’s remember Aland Etienne for the dedication he brought to his work and the unseen contributions he made to the daily lives of those he protected. Let his memory inspire us to appreciate the essential workers who often go unnoticed, and to advocate for safer conditions and greater respect for those who serve on the front lines. The life of Aland Etienne matters. He was more than just a security guard. He was a person, and his loss should be a catalyst for empathy, understanding, and change.