Can't think of his name either, but I believe the Afghan resistance leader was assassinated by a film crew on September 10, 2001.
I've been searching re your inquiry on and off today because I know it was discussed on FR. It was Masood from Afghanistan and the date was 9/9. This was originally posted before 9/11. Interesting discussion.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/519398/posts
I think you might be thinking of Ahmed Shah Massoud, Afghanistan Northern Alliance Chief. He was killed September 9th.
Massoud.
Ahmed "Shah" Massoud, leader of the Afghan Northern Alliance, was very charismatic and also very pro-American, dating back to the Soviet occupation days. I have a Soldier of Fortune article about him from I think 1985. He looked somewhat like Bob Marley.
Massoud and the Northern Alliance were harrying the Taliban with sabotage and attacks. They enjoyed the allegiance of many warlords/tribal leaders. Massoud would have been America's best friend in the region following 9/11, and would have brought a severe threat to bear against Osama, Omar, and the Taliban. Bin Laden was thinking strategically in killing Massoud.
So we should think: who today is a charismatic, powerful, ally of the U.S., who would be necessary for us to react to another major attack on our soil?
You are correct, he was the leader of the Northern Alliance. Can't remember his name though.