Westchester Reporter

Westchester County held a two-day event to honor the memory of residents who perished in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, as well as those who have succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses. The event featured an Interfaith Prayer Vigil and the September 11th Memorial Service fostering unity and remembrance.

This year, eight additional names were added to the 9/11 First Responders Memorial to remember those who died of 9/11-related illnesses, bringing the total to 81. Everyone honored on the Memorial either resided in Westchester County, worked in the County, or volunteered within Westchester.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “This year, we add eight more names to the 9/11 First Responders Memorial – eight more people who celebrated birthdays in our County, walked their kids to school here and called Westchester County home. They are part of us, just like those we lost on 9/11, those we have lost since, and those who continue to suffer from 9/11-related illnesses. It is our duty to gather, remember and honor these brave souls. This interfaith vigil and memorial service not only pay tribute to their memory but also stand as a testament to our community’s resilience and unity. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the affected families and ensuring that the legacy of their loved ones endures.”

Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “As the 23rd anniversary of Sept. 11 approaches, we once again pause to reflect on the profound loss and enduring strength that arose from that tragic day. This year, we solemnly add eight new names—individuals taken from us far too soon due to 9/11-related illnesses—to the 9/11 First Responders Memorial. These men and women, like the victims we lost in previous years and on Sept. 11 represent lives cut short but leave behind a legacy of service, courage and love. Together, as one community, we vow never to forget and will continue to support the families and friends who carry this heavy burden every day. Today, as on all days, we reaffirm our commitment to honor their sacrifices—their lives—and ensure that future generations understand the true cost of freedom.”

The vigil brought together representatives from Christian, Jewish Hindu and Muslim communities for prayer and included a ceremonial wreath-laying at the 9/11 steel beam from the Twin Towers.

The memorial service honored Westchester County residents killed on September 11th along with those who have died from related illnesses. The names of those who perished on September 11th were read aloud along with those who have since died due to related illness.

Westchester County Board of Legislators Chair Vedat Gashi said: “During this two-day event we honor heroes lost on September 11th along with those perished due related illnesses this is an opportunity for our community come together extend deepest respect colleagues families whose strength resilience reflect courage remembered.”

Master of Ceremonies for ceremony former WCBS News Director Tim Scheld said: “I am deeply honored be part Westchester memorial ceremony New Yorkers Americans never forget moment learned city under attack privilege work towards ensuring perished never forgotten passed suffering receive respect recognition deserve day New Yorkers must always remember uphold unity."

Co-Chairs Matthew J McCauley Georgia Asciutto stated: "view memorial perspectives widow responder illness responder perspectives align humble respectful selflessly answered call months after unfortunately later applaud continued support growing thank showing growing number families never forget sacrifices."

Generations Church Elder President IRC New Rochelle Mark McLean said: "gather faith base pray people important never forget pain triumph remembering commemorating courage heroism responders fateful day honor best indeed nation."