For many 9/11 victims, a voicemail was the only way to communicate and say goodbye to loved ones. These voicemails have been widely shared over the years and even commemorated in the 9/11 Museum and Memorial. To honor the 20th anniversary of the attacks, NPR set up a phone booth in Brooklyn Bridge Park and invited the loved ones of six 9/11 victims to leave a voicemail for the person they lost that day.
The speakers include Trish Straine, whose husband died in the north tower days after their second child was born and Matthew Bocchi, who lost his father in the attacks at age nine. The moving project demonstrates the enduring nature of grief and offers a beautiful glimpse into how these families continue to cherish and honor their loved ones even two decades later.
We encourage you to watch the full project here.