Remembering the life and legacy of Chris Gray on September 11

Former West Virginia quarterback Christopher Gray was one of the thousands who lost their lives in the horrific terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Yet we should not remember Gray as just a statistic of inhumane acts.

Gray was born on February 4, 1969 and grew up in Manalapan, New Jersey. After a stellar high school career, Gray earned a scholarship to play at West Virginia College under legendary head coach Don Nehlen.

He played at WVU from 1987 to 1991, and although he spent most of his time in the old gold and blue as a backup to Mountaineer legend Major Harris, Gray still played quarterback for West Virginia. As a senior in 1991, he played eight games, recording 400 passing yards and one touchdown, and graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1992.

After graduating, Gray got a tryout with his favorite childhood team, the Miami Dolphins – a dream come true. Unfortunately, things didn't end like a fairy tale for Gray and he didn't continue. He completed his master's degree in 1994.

After his football career was over, Gray worked as a foreign exchange broker for Cantor Fitzgerald, a position he held until his death. His offices were in the upper floors of the North Tower, a few floors above the impact zone of American Airlines Flight 11. He was engaged at the time and was scheduled to be married in May 2002.

Gray's legacy lives on. Every year on September 11, WVU Football posts about Gray: “Today we remember those who lost their lives in the tragic events of September 11, including our former quarterback Chris Gray.” In 2003, the Chris Gray Memorial Scholarship was established in West Virginia to honor the late quarterback. Manalapan High School also honored Gray with an academic and athletic scholarship. Manalapan has also retired his No. 16 jersey.

We honor and remember not only Gray's life on September 11th, but all those who lost their lives on that fateful day. May we never forget.