FIA–New England Commemorates 25th Anniversary of 9/11 with Solemn Remembrance Ceremony

Honoring the Fallen, Saluting Our First Responders, and Keeping the Spirit of “Never Forget” Alive

Community Members and Westborough Firefighters Unite to Remember the Lives Lost and Honor the Heroes of September 11, 2001

The Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England organized a solemn 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 42 Milk Street, Westborough, Massachusetts, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

9/11 remembrance ceremony brought together Westborough firefighters, FIA–New England members, and residents to remember nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honor the courageous first responders who made ultimate sacrifice while saving others.

Westborough Firefighters Join FIA–New England in Honoring the Heroes

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Captain Craig Rossi and Lieutenant Gregory Doucet of the Westborough Fire Department, who joined the remembrance ceremony along with members of their team. Their participation was especially meaningful as the community remembered the firefighters, police officers, emergency personnel, and other first responders who demonstrated extraordinary courage on September 11, 2001. The presence of Westborough firefighters symbolized the continuing tradition of service and sacrifice carried forward by today's first responders.

Remembering 9/11: FIA–New England Commemorates 25 Years of Heroes and Sacrifice

Moment of Silence and Prayer

The program began with a deeply moving Moment of Silence and Peace Prayer for the departed souls, led by Dev Lingadevaru. The solemn observance provided an opportunity for everyone present to reflect on the lives lost and the families affected by the tragedy.

The prayer also remembered the brave men and women who entered the World Trade Center towers and Pentagon with courage and a commitment for saving others.

Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem

Sanjay Gokhale of FIA–New England led the rendition of the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, bringing a sense of patriotism and national unity. Community members and firefighters stood together to honor the United States and the values of freedom, democracy, service, and unity that we all cherish.

FIA–New England 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony — 25 Years, Never Forgotten

Addresses by Community and State Leaders

The remembrance ceremony featured heartfelt addresses from FIA Executive Director Jyoti Singh and State Representative Manoj Chourasia.

Their remarks reflected on the significance of the 25th anniversary and the importance of keeping the memory of September 11 alive for future generations. They highlighted the extraordinary courage of first responders, the resilience of the American people, and the importance of communities coming together across cultures and backgrounds.

The speakers also emphasized that remembrance should inspire continued service, compassion, unity, and respect for those who dedicate their lives to protect others.

Special Wreath Ceremony Led by Three Senior Mothers

One of the most touching moments of the ceremony was a special wreath-laying ceremony led by three senior mothers: Sita Singh, Virginia Kota, and Sulabha Gokhale.

The three mothers placed the wreath in solemn remembrance of the victims of 9/11 and in honor of the first responders and heroes who sacrificed their lives while serving others.

Their participation represented the voice of mothers and families everywhere who understand the profound meaning of sacrifice, courage, and loss. The wreath ceremony became a particularly emotional tribute, connecting generations through remembrance and respect. 

Community United in Remembrance

The ceremony was attended by members of the Indian American community, Westborough residents, local community members, and supporters, reflecting the strong relationship between FIA–New England and the communities it serves. 

FIA–New England's 9/11 remembrance is part of its continuing commitment to building bridges between communities and honoring first responders, veterans, law enforcement, and public servants.

The gathering demonstrated that the memory of September 11 transcends cultural and geographic boundaries. Twenty-five years later, Americans and communities across the world continue to remember those who were lost and honor those who answered the call of duty.

Never Forget

As the ceremony concluded, participants gathered around the memorial in a shared moment of reflection and remembrance.

The 25th anniversary observance served as a powerful reminder that while time has passed, the memories of September 11 remain deeply etched in the hearts of millions.

FIA–New England extends our deepest respect and gratitude to all the victims, first responders, firefighters, police officers, military personnel, volunteers, and families whose lives were forever changed by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Twenty-five years later, we remember. We honor. We stand united!

WE WILL NEVER FORGET — 9/11/2001–2026

Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England

Building Bridges • Serving Communities • Honoring Heroes