By: Vandana Jhingan

Members of the Indian-American community gathered at 43 Milk Street in Westborough on Wednesday to mark the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. The remembrance ceremony paid tribute to the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost — including at least 41 of Indian origin — as well as the courageous first responders who sacrificed their lives to save others.

A moving highlight of the event was the installation of a preserved metal fragment from the original World Trade Center, now standing as a symbol of resilience and remembrance. Community members laid flowers and observed a moment of silence around the artifact, honoring its role as a tangible connection to that tragic day.

“This piece of steel is not just a relic,” said one of the organizers. “It represents the lives taken, the bravery displayed, and the unity that carried us forward.”

The ceremony drew families, local residents, and leaders of the Indian-American community, who came together in solemn reflection. Remarks highlighted the selfless heroism of firefighters, police officers, medical workers, and ordinary citizens who responded in the face of terror.

Community members also shared personal reflections, emphasizing the responsibility of passing on the memory of 9/11 to younger generations — not only as a lesson in tragedy but as a testament to the enduring power of unity and resilience.

The gathering stood as both a memorial and a call for peace, underscoring the Indian-American community’s deep ties to the American experience and its commitment to ensuring that the sacrifices and lessons of September 11 are never forgotten.