The 25th-anniversary gathering in Westborough brought together FIA–New England members, local firefighters and community residents to remember those lost, honor first responders and reflect on the enduring values of courage, service and unity.
WESTBOROUGH, MA — September 11, 2026 — Twenty-five years after September 11, 2001, communities across the United States continue to remember the lives lost and the extraordinary courage displayed during and after that tragic day.
In Westborough, Massachusetts, the Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England marked the 25th anniversary with a meaningful remembrance ceremony on Friday, September 11, 2026.
Held at 42 Milk Street, Westborough, Massachusetts, the gathering brought together FIA–New England members, Westborough firefighters, local residents and community supporters for an afternoon of reflection, prayer and gratitude.
The ceremony remembered the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on September 11, while also recognizing the firefighters, police officers, emergency personnel, military members, volunteers and other first responders who demonstrated extraordinary courage in service to others.
More than an anniversary observance, the gathering offered an opportunity for the community to come together around values that continue to matter: courage, compassion, service, resilience and unity.
FIA–New England Brings the Community Together
The 25th anniversary gave FIA–New England an opportunity to create a shared space for remembrance and reflection.
For the Indian American community in New England, participating in such an observance also represents a meaningful expression of connection to the broader American community.
The ceremony brought together people from different backgrounds with a common purpose—to remember those who were lost, express gratitude to those who served and ensure that the lessons of September 11 continue to reach future generations.
The presence of local first responders made that message even more meaningful.
Westborough Firefighters Honor a Legacy of Service
Captain Craig Rossi and Lieutenant Gregory Doucet of the Westborough Fire Department, along with members of their team, joined the ceremony.
Their participation offered a powerful connection between the first responders remembered from September 11 and the firefighters and emergency professionals who continue to protect communities today.
On September 11, 2001, first responders demonstrated extraordinary bravery as they entered dangerous environments to help others. Their service continues to represent one of the most enduring examples of selflessness associated with that day.
By welcoming Westborough firefighters to the ceremony, FIA–New England recognized not only the heroes of the past but also the men and women who carry the responsibility of public service forward every day.
A Moment of Silence and Peace Prayer
The ceremony began with a Moment of Silence and Peace Prayer, led by Dev Lingadevaru.
The observance created a quiet opportunity for everyone present to reflect on the individuals whose lives were lost and the families whose lives were forever changed.
The prayer also remembered the first responders who answered the call during one of the most difficult moments in American history.
For those gathered, the moment served as a reminder that remembrance can bring people together across generations, cultures and communities.
Honoring America Through the Pledge and National Anthem
The program continued with the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, led by Sanjay Gokhale of FIA–New England.
Community members and firefighters stood together in a shared expression of respect for the United States and the values that unite its people.
Freedom, service, democracy and community were central themes of the moment.
The ceremony demonstrated how a remembrance gathering can simultaneously honor the past and reinforce the importance of standing together in the present.
Community Leaders Reflect on 25 Years
The event also featured remarks from FIA Executive Director Jyoti Singh and State Representative Manoj Chourasia.
Their addresses reflected on the importance of remembering September 11 while ensuring that younger generations understand the significance of the day.
The speakers recognized the courage of first responders and highlighted the resilience shown by Americans and communities in the years that followed.
Their message also looked beyond remembrance itself, emphasizing the positive values that can be carried forward—service to others, compassion, unity and respect for those who dedicate their lives to protecting their communities.
Three Mothers Lead a Moving Wreath Ceremony
One of the most touching moments of the 25th-anniversary observance was a special wreath-laying ceremony led by three senior mothers: Sita Singh, Virginia Kota and Sulabha Gokhale.
The three women placed a wreath in memory of those who lost their lives on September 11 and in honor of the first responders and heroes who sacrificed their lives while serving others.
Their participation added a deeply personal dimension to the ceremony.
As mothers and members of the community, they represented the generations of families who understand the importance of remembering lives lost and recognizing acts of courage.
The wreath became a symbol of respect, remembrance and the enduring connection between generations.
Why 9/11 Remembrance Still Matters 25 Years Later
For those who experienced September 11 firsthand, the memories remain deeply personal.
For younger generations who were born after 2001, remembrance ceremonies provide an opportunity to understand the human stories behind an important moment in American history.
That is why community gatherings such as the FIA–New England ceremony remain meaningful.
They create space not only to remember, but also to share stories, recognize service and reinforce the values that communities want to carry into the future.
The 25th anniversary is therefore both a moment of reflection and an opportunity to remind future generations about the importance of courage, compassion and standing together during difficult times.
An Indian American Community United in Remembrance
The participation of the Indian American community added another meaningful layer to the observance.
FIA–New England has continued to focus on building connections between communities and recognizing the contributions of first responders, veterans, law enforcement officers and other public servants.
The Westborough ceremony reflected that broader commitment.
People from different cultural and professional backgrounds gathered in the same place, demonstrating that remembrance can transcend cultural, geographic and generational boundaries.
The shared experience of honoring those who served created a strong sense of community and solidarity.
Keeping the Spirit of “Never Forget” Alive
As the ceremony concluded, participants gathered around the memorial for a final moment of reflection.
Twenty-five years have passed since September 11, 2001, but remembrance remains an important part of keeping the stories of those affected by that day alive.
The ceremony honored the victims and their families while recognizing the first responders and volunteers who demonstrated remarkable courage.
It also highlighted a message that extends beyond a single anniversary: communities are strongest when people come together with compassion, respect and a willingness to serve others.
For FIA–New England, the 25th-anniversary ceremony was a meaningful expression of remembrance and community unity.
Twenty-five years later, the commitment remains clear—to remember those who were lost, honor those who served and carry forward the values of courage, compassion and unity.
🇺🇸 We Will Never Forget — September 11, 2001–2026
Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England
Building Bridges • Serving Communities • Honoring Heroes
FAQ
What was the FIA–New England 9/11 remembrance ceremony?
The FIA–New England 9/11 remembrance ceremony was a community gathering held on September 11, 2026, in Westborough, Massachusetts, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, and honor the victims and first responders.
Where was the FIA–New England 9/11 ceremony held?
The remembrance ceremony was held at 42 Milk Street in Westborough, Massachusetts, and brought together FIA–New England members, Westborough firefighters, local residents and community supporters.
Why did FIA–New England commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11?
FIA–New England organized the observance to remember those who lost their lives on September 11, honor the courage of first responders and bring the community together around values of service, unity and compassion.
Which Westborough firefighters attended the ceremony?
Captain Craig Rossi and Lieutenant Gregory Doucet of the Westborough Fire Department participated in the ceremony along with members of their team.
Who led the Peace Prayer during the ceremony?
Dev Lingadevaru led the Moment of Silence and Peace Prayer during the remembrance program.
Who led the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem?
Sanjay Gokhale of FIA–New England led the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem.
Who spoke at the FIA–New England 9/11 remembrance?
The ceremony featured remarks from FIA Executive Director Jyoti Singh and State Representative Manoj Chourasia, who reflected on the significance of the 25th anniversary, first responders and the importance of keeping the memory of September 11 alive.
