On September 11, 2001, terrorists used hijacked airplanes as weapons to attack the United States. Two planes hit the World Trade Center towers in New York City. One plane flew into the side of the Pentagon. A fourth plane crashed in a Pennsylvania field after passengers stormed the cockpit. Nearly 3,000 people died in the attack.
Thousands of first responders answered the call that day to search for survivors amid the rubble, smoke and debris, with 343 firefighters ultimately perishing in the collapse of the Twin Towers and countless more succumbing to 9/11-related illnesses from working at Ground Zero.
Use this resource page to learn about developments in healthcare protections for 9/11 first responders, read the experiences of those who were there and reflect on those who left a legacy behind.
To share your 9/11 story, please email editor@firerescue1.com.
The NFFF and FDNY will add the firefighters’ names to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, with Gov. Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams and FDNY leaders attending
Among 344 graduates, Ian Montesi, whose father died in the North Tower collapse, and Francis Donohue, whose father died of a 9/11-related illness, are following their fathers’ path
Only 14 states require 9/11 instruction, and Massachusetts hasn’t until Gov. Maura Healey directed the state to embed September 11 into curriculum framework
Communities across the country pay tribute with moments of silence, tolling bells, candlelight vigils and other activities
In the short film “Never Forgotten,” EarthCam cameras capture two decades of change at the World Trade Center site
Officials have now been able to link remains to 1,649 World Trade Center victims
Chief of Department John Hodgens shares his personal experience from the day and how the FDNY continues to honor its fallen firefighters year after year
Understanding the enormity and power of support that comes with being a part of the fire service family
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation CEO shares his memories from Sept. 11 and beyond, plus the ongoing support for families impacted by tragedy
As 9/11 becomes a historical event to younger generations, it’s up to us to pass on the lessons learned and keep the memories of those we lost alive
The museum is honoring the anniversary of Sept. 11 with a new exhibit, “Recovery and Reflection, Celebrating the 9/11 Tribute”
The addition of 43 fire and EMS members who died of illnesses related to Sept. 11 attacks nears the number killed in the collapses
We must continue to remember and honor the 343, and encourage new members to study the sacrifices of their brother firefighters
Set aside time to watch videos and talk with new firefighters about the significance of that day on fire service history
Why technology is the key to avoiding the next 9/11 and MCI preparedness
Prosecutors say Khalid Sheikh Mohammed may not face the death penalty
Following the 9/11 Report, we have continued to struggle with command and communications
The “9/11 Notice Act” will alert workers in the area of the World Trade Center during the 9/11 attacks of financial, healthcare benefits
Deputy Chief Richard Alles hopes to cut 5 minutes off his time in the run up 104 floors
Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said the World Trade Center Health Program “is facing massive cuts in just a few years.”
Bob Gear has led Benton County Fire District 1 and the Pasco Fire Department; he also responded to the World Trade Center attack on 9/11
“When we leave, each house will be in better shape,” said James Earl, a retired New York City fire lieutenant and project manager with Heart 9/11
The NYFP was primarily tasked with protecting property, but its members also saved lives alongside the FDNY’s Bravest
The measure also includes members of the military who responded to 9/11 in Shanksville, Pa., and at the Pentagon, unlike the original legislation
Pfeifer will manage day-to-day operations; the retired chief is known for his work in counterterrorism and disaster preparedness
Former Firefighter Michael Weinstock, who suffers from a neurological condition, hopes to raise awareness of the healthcare needs of 9/11 emergency responders
North Haven Firefighter Matthias Wirtz “was putting everybody else above himself, just what he has done his entire life,” said Chief Paul Januszewski
Thomas D. Healy served with the department for 35 years
Matthias Wirtz, a 22-year veteran of the North Haven Fire Department, received CPR before being transported to a hospital
The health program is facing a $3 billion deficit over the next decade
Greg “Mickey” Hansen joined FDNY a few months after 9/11, having searched for his sister and assisted others after the planes struck the Twin Towers
The CDC changed the contractors who run the National Provider Network for some 25,000 and the prescription drug benefits for the whole program
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