Westchester County held two commemorative events to pay tribute to those who perished in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and those who later died from 9/11-related illnesses. Led by County Executive Ken Jenkins, the events included an Interfaith Prayer Vigil on September 10 and a Memorial Service on September 11.
This year’s observance included the addition of seven names to the 9/11 First Responders Memorial, raising the total to 88. Everyone honored on the Memorial either resided in Westchester County, worked in the County, or volunteered within Westchester.
Jenkins said, “Nearly a quarter century later, the pain of September 11 is still with us in Westchester. This year, we added seven more names to the First Responders Memorial, each representing a life that was cut short by the illnesses associated with that tragic day. We come together not only to mourn, but also to ensure that their names, their service and their sacrifices are never forgotten. These ceremonies are moments of reflection and resilience as we continue to support the families and loved ones whose lives were forever changed.”
Deputy County Executive Richard Wishnie said, “Our annual vigil and memorial service allow us to pause, reflect and stand together in solidarity. The addition of seven names this year reminds us that the impact of that day continues to unfold in our families and neighborhoods. Westchester stands united in honoring those who are no longer with us and in offering strength to the families who carry their memory every day.”
The Interfaith Prayer Vigil featured Christian, Jewish, Hindu and Muslim leaders offering prayers, followed by a presentation of the colors by the Westchester County Department of Public Safety Color Guard, a ceremonial wreath-laying at the 9/11 steel beam from the Twin Towers, remarks from Jenkins and closing remarks from Wishnie.
The memorial service honored all Westchester County residents who died on 9/11 and from 9/11-related illnesses. The service included remarks, music and the reading of the names of all who are memorialized.
Westchester County Board of Legislators Chair Vedat Gashi said, “Today we gathered to read the names and honor those we lost on September 11th and from related illnesses. Though decades have passed, the heartache endures, but so does the truth that emerged from that darkness: Americans are resilient, compassionate, and unbreakably strong when we look out for one another. In reading each name, we ensure their sacrifice remains forever etched in our community’s heart.”
Master of Ceremonies for the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony and Fox 5 Reporter Richard Giacovas said, “Covering stories every year on 9/11, especially here in Westchester, is still incredibly emotional this many years later. It is my honor to emcee this program and remember your loved ones. May their memory be a blessing and let us never forget.”
9/11 First Responders Memorial Committee Co-Chairs Matthew J. McCauley and Georgia Asciutto said, “As we mark another somber anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center, we come together today to remember all the fallen heroes, to honor their bravery and to ensure the 9/11 families that they, and their lost loved ones, will never be forgotten.”
