In a powerful tribute ahead of the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks, the FDNY Foundation hosted its inaugural Never Forget Memorial Scholarship Ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, at FDNY headquarters in Brooklyn.
The first-of-its-kind ceremony honors the enduring legacy of the Department’s leadership and officers killed in the line of duty on September 11, 2001, and pays tribute to all those lost that day and those who have since died of illnesses related to the rescue and recovery efforts.
Scholarships were presented to active FDNY members named in honor of the memory of the fallen heroes, ensuring their courage and service continue to inspire future generations.
“A heartfelt congratulations to the over 80 scholarship recipients that we’re recognizing this morning—over 50 of which are here in person, along with the other 120 or so that we will bestow scholarships on over the course of the year,” FDNY Foundation Chairman Matthew J. DiLiberto said. “Of all the things we do at the FDNY Foundation, what we are here to do today—to help further the higher education of our members—is undoubtedly one of the most gratifying. Your character—and the desire that you have to challenge yourself and advance your career in this Department while simultaneously doing an incredibly dangerous job—is what makes this Department so strong today and ensures that it will be strong for generations to come.”
“The funding provided by the FDNY Foundation helps ease the financial burden of higher education and gives our members a way to continue learning while serving the people of this city,” FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said at the scholarship ceremony. “That investment directly supports operational strength, professionalism and readiness of the FDNY. I want each of you to know how proud I am of your accomplishments. You represent the very best of this Department—driven, disciplined, and committed to improving.”
With these scholarships, the FDNY Foundation supports Department members who are pursuing continuing education, a critical step in professional growth and advancement within the FDNY. The new initiative reaffirms the FDNY Foundation’s commitment to honoring the fallen—not only in remembrance, but in action by investing in the education, growth and future of those who continue to serve.
As the Department approaches the 25th anniversary of September 11th, the Never Forget Memorial Scholarship Ceremony stands as a powerful reminder that the legacy of those lost continues to shape and guide the FDNY today—in memory and in mission.
To support the FDNY Foundation’s lifesaving mission, go HERE.
To view the list of scholarship recipients, click HERE.
To view more photos from the ceremony, click HERE.