Never Forget 9/11: Reflections from the FDNY

Part One: In the Face of Terror

FDNY — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:52:36 -0400

In Part One of “Never Forget 9/11: Reflections from the FDNY” we begin with leadership. The leaders who faced an unimaginable crisis. The leaders who were lost. And the leaders who carried the Department forward. Twenty-five years after September 11th, the responsibility endures. The voices you'll hear in this episode are the Fire Commissioners who have led the FDNY on that day and since. Entrusted with stewarding the Department through its next chapter. Together, they represent a continuum of leadership forged through sacrifice, resilience and an unwavering commitment to one of the most complex public safety organizations in the world.

Presented by the FDNY Foundation and hosted by Gary Sinise, this five-part podcast series highlights some of the most impactful interviews on September 11th from our FDNY Pro Podcast archives, and new, never before heard testimonials of that day, and the days, weeks, months, and years that followed.

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Part Two: Manhattan Box 8087

FDNY — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:53:02 -0400

In Part Two of “Never Forget 9/11: Reflections from the FDNY” we return to the morning of September 11, 2001. You'll hear shared reflections from those who carried out their mission amid incredible devastation. And, in interviews recorded exclusively for this series, we’ll hear from retired First Deputy Commissioner Frank Cruthers—who was serving as an Assistant Chief of Fire Operations on 9/11—and retired EMS Division Chief Walter Kowalczyk. Together, their voices tell the story of Manhattan Box 8087—the largest and most consequential response in FDNY history.

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Part Three: From the Ashes

FDNY — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:53:35 -0400

In Part Three of "Never Forget 9/11: Reflections from the FDNY" we explore how the Department rebuilt in the wake of September 11th. We'll hear from retired Chief of Department Peter Hayden, who reflects on the challenges the FDNY faced in the aftermath of the attacks—and the years of leadership, rebuilding and transformation that followed. We'll hear how members honored the legacy of the fallen while preparing for the future and how, from tragedy and loss, a stronger FDNY emerged.

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Part Four: Aftershocks

FDNY — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:54:55 -0400

In Part Four of “Never Forget 9/11: Reflections from the FDNY” we examine the lasting health effects of the World Trade Center attacks and the hidden toll carried by those who responded. The Department that emerged from September 11th was more prepared, more capable and more resilient. Yet, its greatest strength remained unchanged: The people who answered the call. But, the story of September 11th did not end when the recovery effort concluded. For many members, the consequences would continue to unfold for years—and eventually, decades.

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Part Five: A Family Forever

FDNY — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:55:26 -0400

In Part Five of “Never Forget 9/11: Reflections from the FDNY” we conclude our series by exploring the bonds that have sustained the FDNY for generations. The legacy of September 11th cannot be measured solely by the events of a single day. It lives on in the FDNY members who continue to carry its effects. It lives on in those who faced illness with the same courage they brought to the World Trade Center. And, it lives on in the families who stood beside them every step of the way. The families. The survivors. The loved ones who continue to honor those who were lost. And, the unbreakable promise that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

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