Louis J. Menno

My most special memory was becoming a member of the World Trade Department’s Planning Division.

I joined the Planning Division in 1972 under the supervision of Philip D. Goz, Project Administrator. Phil mentored me and his professionalism guided me throughout my career. Phil’s unit was responsible for the preparation, bid, and award of all contracts for the continued building of the World Trade Center complex. Two unforgettable projects to which I was assigned were the Windows on the World Restaurant in 1 World Trade Center and the TV antenna mast atop of 1 World Trade Center.

The Windows on the World project was a memorable one for me. I had the opportunity to learn about restaurant operations working with restaurateur Joseph Baum and his staff. I had the experience of working with the architectural firm of Warren Platner, which was responsible for the restaurant’s design, equipment, furniture, and high-end finishes that went into making Windows on The World a worldwide destination. The restaurant opened in April 1976.

The TV antenna mast project was a rewarding experience working with Lester Feld, the Chief Structural Engineer for the World Trade Department, and Clure Owen, consultant for the TV and FM radio broadcasters and RCA, the fabricator of the antenna mast. The logistics of delivering the 360-ft mast in sections from RCA’s plant in Gibbsboro, New Jersey and hoisting them to the roof of 1 World Trade Center was unique and challenging. One original kangaroo crane, used for the construction of 1 World Trade Center, was left in place for this project. When the mast was completed, the crane was disassembled and removed. The TV and FM broadcasters installed their transmitting equipment on the mast and commenced broadcasting from the World Trade Center in June 1980.

I want to recognize the leadership in the World Trade Department that made the World Trade Center complex a reality: Guy F. Tozzoli, Director; Malcom P. Levy, Deputy Director for Physical Facilities; and Robert J. Linn, Chief of Planning and Design.