The Rising memorial in Westchester CountyAug. 31, 2017 - Westchester County is planning to expand its September 11 ceremony this year to include recognition of first-responders who died as a result of illnesses related to their participation in 9/11 rescue efforts.

Families of first responders from Westchester who died as part of the rescue efforts at the Twin Towers are being asked to contact the county if they would like to be part of this year’s ceremony.

“It is my solemn wish to recognize all our fallen heroes,” Astorino said. “Sixteen years later, we will never forget that for some, the effects are still taking a terrible toll and claiming lives.”

The county is compiling a list of these fallen heroes from Westchester, whose names will be read at this year’s ceremony, along with those of the 123 Westchester residents who perished on that day in 2001. To ensure the list is as complete as possible, family members who think their lost ones should be part of this tribute are asked to contact the County Executive’s Office through Clare Kelly by calling (914) 995-2933 or sending an e-mail to . She can also make arrangements for family members to read the name of their loved one and reserve seats.

This year’s remembrance ceremony will take place on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. at The Rising Memorial at the Kensico Dam in Valhalla, N.Y.