Westchester County marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks with its annual Interfaith Prayer Vigil on September 10 and September 11 Memorial Ceremony, bringing together families, first responders, elected officials, faith leaders and residents to honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and those who have since died from 9/11-related illnesses.
This year’s observance served as a solemn reminder that, 25 years later, the impact of September11 continues to be felt throughout Westchester and across the nation. During the ceremonies, eight additional names were unveiled on the County’s 9/11 First Responders Memorial, recognizing those whose lives were claimed by illnesses related to their service following the attacks. Every individual honored on the memorial either lived in Westchester, worked in the County or volunteered.
As part of the 25th anniversary commemoration, Westchester County also released a new short documentary featuring reflections from every County Executive who has served since September 11, 2001. The documentary captures their memories of that day, the County’s response in the aftermath of the attacks, the lasting impact on Westchester and the importance of preserving those stories for future generations. The documentary premiered in advance of the annual remembrance events and is available for the public to view online.
The Interfaith Prayer Vigil featured Christian, Jewish, Hindu and Muslim faith leaders offering prayers of remembrance, followed by the presentation of colors by the Westchester County Department of Public Safety Color Guard, a ceremonial wreath-laying at the World Trade Center steel beam and remarks from County officials.
The September 11 Memorial Ceremony honored every Westchester County resident memorialized at The Rising and the 9/11 First Responders Memorial. The ceremony included the reading of the names of those remembered and reflections marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks.
Master of Ceremonies for the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony and Former WCBS 880 Radio Reporter Sean Adams said: “Serving as master of ceremonies on the 25th anniversary of September 11 is a tremendous responsibility. I was at the World Trade Center on September 11. I have become close to several families over the years. We are not merely reciting names etched in stone; we are remembering people. I urge everyone to read the biographies, learn the personal stories and keep their families in your prayers.”
9/11 First Responders Memorial Committee Co-Chair Georgia Asciutto said: “As unfathomable as it may seem, and 25 years later, the 9/11 attacks continue to take lives and sicken those who responded. While we cannot change these outcomes, we can support heartbroken families by honoring their heroes, remembering their sacrifices and never forgetting their humanity. I hope family members can find some comfort by coming together for the Memorial Service of the 25th anniversary of 9/11.”
9/11 First Responders Memorial Committee Co-Chair Matthew J. McCauley said: “On this 25th Commemoration of the September 11th attacks, we celebrate the lives of those we lost that day as well as those we have lost since due to 9/11 their related illnesses. It is in important that we “celebrate” them for all the good they brought to the world and the legacy that is part of all our lives today. When their names are read it is another opportunity to ensure this continues. Unfortunately, we continue to lose 9/11 First Responders to illness they contracted during the rescue and recovery effort and we thank County Executive Jenkins and his team for continuing to fulfill their promise to never forget those that we have lost and the sacrifices their families have made.”
