The MEMO Blog

Chief Terri Tobin often says it was “in her genes” to join the New York Police Department (NYPD). She knew she was "meant to be there" on September 11. Like many others who responded on 9/11 and participated in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero, Tobin developed illnesses and pain related to the attacks. This is her story.

“And I said, ‘Lucy, we’re not leaving anybody behind, we got to get out of here…’ And I put her hands on my shoulders; she stood behind me...and I held her hands so she wouldn’t let go...and then together we went out.” Hear how Richard Eichen made it safely home, but not until he had helped others. 

For Olivia Perez-Johntry and Caitlyn McIntyre, honoring their parent’s legacy has proven to be a lifelong pursuit. Learn more about their 9/11 stories.

Kevin Dowdell, a lieutenant in the FDNY, lost his life in the rescue and recovery efforts after 9/11. His sons, Patrick and James Dowdell, took up his mantle, pursuing a life of service. Learn more about their story.

From asthma to cancer, many who were children or students on 9/11 and spent time near Ground Zero are now young adults suffering from potentially related diseases. New outreach videos from the WTC Health Program are helping to raise awareness. 

A summer intern shares the 9/11 recollections of  her role model Frederick Agnostakis, a Ground Zero volunteer.

Kilala Yamamoto, a summer intern, created a TikTok video to share her father's ties to the World Trade Center and her subsequent connection to the events of 9/11.  

An Air Force Special Operations Command Staff Sgt. shares stories that inspired our newest installation, showcasing War on Terror military memorials.  

In recognition of the 24th anniversary of 9/11, Visionaries led beautification projects across New York City to clean and restore memorials, preserving these places of dignity, remembrance, and reflection.

Our third annual Legacy of Service evening event honored 9/11 family members Patrick Dowdell, a former U.S. Army Captain, and Patti Quigley, Board Member & Advisor, Razia’s Ray of Hope Foundation.