FDNY Plans Commemoration for 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks
The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) has announced plans to honor the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with a ceremony at Ferryhawks Stadium on Staten Island, featuring the iconic skyline of New York City.
FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker emphasized the significance of the event, slated for September 9, 2026, stating, “When we say ‘never forget,’ we truly mean it.”
“Our dedication revolves around honoring our heritage. It’s a big undertaking that will draw attention from across the globe, requiring substantial resources and time from our department,” Tucker explained to the media.
The choice of stadium, located at the northern part of Staten Island, was intentional due to its beauty and significance. Tucker expressed confidence that the venue, which holds 7,000 people, would be at full capacity.
“The postcard memorial was the city’s first acknowledgment of 9/11. I believe the clear view of Lower Manhattan behind it will be comforting to the FDNY community,” he remarked.
On that fateful day, 343 firefighters lost their lives at the World Trade Center, and many others have succumbed to long-term health issues, including severe cancers.
Commemorative activities will include lighting the “Tribute in Light” on the anniversary, symbolizing the Twin Towers with two beams of light reaching into the sky.
Additionally, the FDNY plans to share an updated health report on the impact of 9/11 on first responders in September 2026, along with a short film about Mychal Judge, the first identified victim of the attacks, and a podcast series focusing on the bravery and survival of firefighters.
FDNY Foundation President Matt Diliberto mentioned that next year’s commemoration will foster a “new appreciation” for the challenging work of first responders and law enforcement.
“There’s a clear renewed recognition of the tremendous risks that the FDNY personnel take daily to protect lives,” he noted. “The loss of some of our finest firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics from that day is still deeply felt.”
Diliberto revealed plans for a new report in September 2026, outlining the ongoing health effects stemming from the events of 9/11.
Since the attacks, over 48,000 first responders and those exposed to Ground Zero toxins have been diagnosed with various cancers, with diagnoses skyrocketing by 143% in the past five years.
Interestingly, 68 boxes of health data from Ground Zero were uncovered in late November, but only 24 of those were accessible to the city at that time.
For the 20th anniversary, the FDNY held a memorial at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, while the Staten Island Postcard 9/11 Memorial organized an event to remember the 263 residents from the borough who perished in the attacks, with former Mayor Bill de Blasio overseeing the arrangements.
