Chesterfield, NJ - September 21, 2026: Sewa International organized over 14 commemorations and 50 service events across the country to mark the 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack on America that killed over 3000 people in 2001. Attendees and Sewa volunteers paid homage to the attack victims and honored police officers, firefighters, and other brave people who sacrificed their lives trying to save people during the attack.
Sewa brought together public officials, military personnel, veterans, first responders, Scouts, JROTC cadets, students, families, and community and faith leaders in these events. Paying tribute to victims and first responders, speakers recalled the resilience and strength shown by Americans after the tragedy.
"The sacrifices made by Americans and our partners in the years after 9/11 speak of bravery and the relentless freedom that can't be chained," said Colonel Kevin E. White, Commander, 514th Airlift Wing, and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, who delivered the keynote speech at the event on September 11 in Chesterfield Township, New Jersey.
We Never Forget
Held at the 9/11 memorial that Sewa South Jersey Chapter helped establish with the township in 2024, the event brought together over 250 attendees. Guest Speaker at the event, Bryan A. Branson, Honorary Commander Emeritus, JBMDL & President of the Armed Forces Heritage Museum, shared his personal story and reflections on the tragedy's lasting impact. "We come together in a spirit of remembrance and unity, reflecting on the resilience and strength that arose from tragedy to pay homage to the victims, first responders, and all who were affected, ensuring we never forget, " he said.
State Senator Latham Tiver said, "We must embody the values of care and pride daily, ensuring that the lessons learned from 9/11 are not just about remembrance, but about taking action for a kinder, more united future."
Colonel Kevin E. White [left], Bryan A. Branson [top right], and State Senator Latham Tiver [bottom right] spoke at the 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Chesterfield, NJ
The program included a flag-raising, Color Guard presentation, Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, prayer, and a moment of silence. Sewa LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Development) youth also presented roses and handmade cards to first responders and veterans.
Local officials, first responders, and community members gathered in Houston, TX, for a memorial ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001
Sewa Houston organized a 9/11 Day of Commemoration and Remembrance at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in Houston on September 11. The program honored those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and featured remarks from local officials, first responders, and community leaders on service, unity, and resilience.
In California, the Sewa International Bay Area Chapter held a 9/11 Commemoration and Day of Service at the Milpitas Tech Center. Sewa honored veterans, first responders, city officials, and community partners. The program included a Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem performed by LEAD youth, a moment of silence, and a meditation (mindfulness) session.
Sewa volunteers commemorated 9/11 and honored veterans and first responders in Milpitas, CA
Sewa-organized 9/11 service events included burrito and sandwich drives, yoga sessions, highway and park cleanup, mental health workshops, tree planting, beach cleanup, walk & runs, electronic recycling, meal preparation and packing, back to school night, food distribution, and senior events.
About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 46 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.
