FBI Agents Association Statement on 24th Anniversary of 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

“As we mark the 24^th anniversary of the September 11^th terrorist attacks, the FBIAA remembers the lives lost and the enduring courage of those who responded that day. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families forever changed by this tragedy and pay tribute to the bravery of our fallen FBI family members and all first responders who selflessly served on September 11, 2001, and throughout the investigations that followed.

We honor the memory of our colleagues and friends, FBI Special Agent Leonard “Lenny” Hatton and former FBI Special Agent John P. O’Neill, who gave their lives while helping others at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Agent Hatton courageously rushed to the towers, helping to evacuate those in danger and providing critical information to the FBI in the midst of the unfolding crisis. Having recently retired from the FBI, Mr. O’Neill was serving as Chief of Security for the World Trade Center. After escaping the North Tower, he bravely returned to assist others still inside. Their courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to protecting others embody the very best of the FBI and the ideals of public service.

We also recognize the many FBI Special Agents, FBI employees and other first responders who have faced illnesses resulting from their exposure to toxic conditions at the 9/11 sites. According to the World Trade Center Health Program, more than 60,000 emergency responders and recovery and cleanup personnel have been diagnosed with 9/11-related illnesses, including more than 300 FBI employees.

With deep respect, we remember the 19 FBI Special Agents, nine FBI professional staff members, and one member of the FBI Police who have died from 9/11-related illnesses: Special Agents Dennis Bonelli, Steven A. Carr, William R. Craig, Brian L. Crews, Laurie Fournier, Jack Hess, Jerry D. Jobe, Mark Johnston, Donald Kleber, David J. LeValley, Mark J. Mikulski, Thomas J. Mohnal, Melissa S. Morrow, Robert M. Roth, Gerard D. Senatore, Rex A. Stockham, Paul H. Wilson, Wesley J. Yoo, and Todd Spiker; Professional employees Shannon M. Beck, Anne Henry Call, Nicole Conti, Diane Hunt, Gladys M. Lee, William “Homer” Lewis, Bryan Myers, Melica Sanders, and Saul C. Tocker; and FBI Police Lieutenant Yiu Tak “Lou” Tao. Their bravery and sacrifice will forever be remembered.

The FBI honors fallen Agents from 9/11-related illnesses on the FBI Wall of Honor.

The FBIAA remains steadfast in ensuring all those affected receive the care and support they need and deserve. Working in partnership with the FBI, the U.S. Department of Labor, the World Trade Center Health Program and the Victims Compensation Fund (VCF), we strive to ensure that resources and benefits reach those in need. In addition, the FBIAA Memorial College Fund continues to provide funds so that the children and spouses of deceased Agents can pursue their college dreams. For the 2025–2026 school year, the fund is supporting 39 children currently enrolled, with an additional 97 children expected to enroll in the future.

We urge all Agents who served at 9/11 impact sites to register with The World Trade Center Health Program at www.cdc.gov/wtc/ and the VCF at www.vcf.gov. These programs are critical to protecting the health and future of those affected.

As we mark this anniversary, we recommit ourselves to remembering the fallen, supporting the living, and upholding the unity and resilience that defined the response to 9/11.”