NEW YORK — Each year, the haunting phrase “I never got to meet you” resonates deeply as families of 9/11 victims gather to honor their lost loved ones. This annual remembrance takes place at Ground Zero, where relatives recite the names of nearly 3,000 individuals who perished in the September 11, 2001, attacks, orchestrated by al-Qaida hijackers. The tragic event saw the destruction of four jetliners as they struck the twin towers, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania.
This year’s ceremony, set for Wednesday, is anticipated to feature young readers, some of whom were born after the attacks. Last year, 28 young individuals participated among more than 140 readers, underscoring the generational transition in remembering this historical event.
Many of these youth are the children, nieces, or grandchildren of victims, carrying forward stories, photographs, and a sense of responsibility to remember those lost. The legacy of being a “9/11 family” continues to echo through generations, as future generations will learn about the attacks from those whohold no direct memories of that fateful day.
“It’s like you’re passing the torch on,” said 13-year-old Allan Aldycki, who has taken part in the ceremony for two years and is committed to reading names again this year. He cherishes mementos from his grandfather, a firefighter who lost his life in the tragedy.
Allan expressed his feelings of connection, stating, “I wish I had a chance to really know you,” about his grandfather. He sees reading names as an opportunity to bond with his family’s history and hopes to inspire future children in his family to participate.
“It’s an honor to be able to teach them about their heritage and the importance of remembrance,” he shared, emphasizing his desire to educate peers about the significance of 9/11.
During the ceremony, Allan researches the lives of each individual whose name he will read, reflecting on their stories. His mother noted, “He understands the importance of what it means to somebody.”
This ritual of reciting names extends beyond Ground Zero, as military memorials honor fallen soldiers in similar fashion. Jewish communities often read names of Holocaust victims during commemorative events, and the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing are also remembered in their memorial service.
At the Pentagon, officials read the names of the 184 lives lost there, while at the Flight 93 National Memorial, relatives read the names of the 40 victims. The 9/11 Memorial in New York dedicates its hours-long observance primarily to the names of 2,977 victims, with family members volunteering to read and share their lost loved ones’ stories.
“I think often about how, if you were still here, you would be one of my best friends,” shared Capri Yarosz, reflecting on her uncle, a New York firefighter. Now 17, she has a treasured baby book about him and continues to keep his memory alive in her family’s conversations. “It means a lot to me that I can kind of keep alive my uncle’s name,” she said.
Capri’s two younger sisters have also participated in reading names, while their mother has found it too painful to join. “They’re braver,” she remarked, acknowledging her daughters’ courage.
Now, many children of 9/11 victims, once young and innocent, have grown into adulthood, yet around 100 remain who were born after their parent’s tragic loss. During last year’s ceremony, Manuel DaMota Jr. honored his father, saying, “Though we never met, I am honored to carry your name and legacy with me.”
One after another, young participants have honored various relatives, sharing heartfelt sentiments that encapsulate their grief and gratitude. Lines such as, “I wish I had more than just a picture,” and “I will never forget you,” illustrate the enduring impact of that day and the commitment to remembrance that will continue with future generations.
