In this StoryCorps recording, retired New York City firefighter John Vigiano Sr. remembers his sons, John Jr., a firefighter, and Joe, a policeman (photo below), both of whom died at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. I do not know the Vigiano family. However, as the daughter of a New York City fireman and a nurse, I know many people like them: fire, police, nurses, EMTs and others emergency services workers who serve the frightened, the wounded, the dying and the lost every day – whether or not the cameras are rolling for us to see it. 

On this September 11, I remember those who lost their lives on that tragic day and their families and friends. I also remember those who lived and served at ground zero for the weeks and months the followed — including my sister, a nurse, my brother in law, a policeman, my uncles and cousins, firefighters, as well as the iron workers, carpenters, electricians and others who endured the massive rescue effort and clean-up that followed. 

My thoughts and prayers are with you all today. 

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