Twenty-five years ago, the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, changed our nation forever. As we remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives, the first responders who rushed toward danger and the countless individuals whose lives were forever altered, NFDA also pauses to recognize a part of the 9/11 story that is less often told: the extraordinary role funeral service professionals played in the aftermath.

In New York, funeral directors responded to Ground Zero as members of Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Teams (DMORTs), bringing specialized knowledge and experience to an unprecedented mass-fatality response. But they were not alone. Funeral directors who were not part of DMORT also volunteered, traveling to New York and spending days and weeks at Ground Zero wherever their skills, compassion and willingness to serve were needed.

Others served families directly in their funeral homes and communities. They helped people confront losses that were sudden, traumatic and, in many cases, complicated by the absence of recoverable remains. They helped families find ways to say goodbye. They coordinated services for firefighters, police officers and other victims. And they helped communities begin the long process of mourning an event almost impossible to comprehend.

It was difficult, emotionally demanding work, much of it performed outside the public spotlight. Yet it demonstrated something funeral professionals understand deeply: when tragedy strikes, caring for the dead and supporting the living are essential parts of helping a community begin to heal.

Twenty-five years later, the lessons and memories of September 11 remain deeply personal. That is why the September issue of The Director looks back at 9/11 through five different perspectives, sharing stories and reflections that help preserve this important chapter in the history of funeral service.

As our nation marks this solemn anniversary, we remember those who died, honor all who responded and express our profound gratitude to the funeral professionals who stepped forward when their expertise and their humanity were needed most.

We invite you to click here (members only) and read the September issue of The Director and reflect on the stories of September 11 and funeral service’s role in helping families and communities through one of our nation’s darkest days.