9/11 Claims Life of Father Who Searched Ground Zero for Son

On September 11, 2001, a tragedy unfolded as the World Trade Center was attacked, leading to the loss of numerous lives, including several heroic firefighters. Among them was Jimmy Riches Jr., a firefighter with Ladder 114 in Brooklyn. He responded to the terrorist attacks and was last seen carrying an injured civilian from the lobby of the North Tower.

Father’s Tireless Search for His Son

In the aftermath of the collapse, his father, Battalion Chief James “Jim” Riches, raced to Ground Zero to search for his son. In an emotional six-month quest, he sifted through debris and hazardous materials in a desperate attempt to find Jimmy Jr. Unfortunately, his search concluded with the discovery of his son’s helmet and remains in March 2002. Jimmy Jr. was one of 343 firefighters who perished that tragic day.

Health Consequences of Ground Zero Exposure

The toxic cloud that enveloped lower Manhattan had long-term health effects on first responders. Jim Riches, who frequently returned to Ground Zero after finding his son, ultimately succumbed to 9/11-related health complications on Thanksgiving Day at the age of 74. He became one of over 400 FDNY members who have lost their lives due to illnesses connected with the attacks.

Advocacy for 9/11 Victims

For two decades, Jim Riches tirelessly advocated for the rights of 9/11 survivors and victims’ families. He joined the New York City Fire Department in 1977, a vocation that inspired his sons. His legacy extends through his family, with three of his sons following in his footsteps to become firefighters.

• Riches was instrumental in the creation of the World Trade Center Health Program.
• He was a driving force behind the establishment of the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund.
• Jim often testified before Congress to raise awareness about health issues facing first responders.

His passion also led him to publicly criticize city officials, highlighting failures in preparedness and equipment that contributed to firefighter fatalities during the attacks.

Memorials and Remembrance

The legacy of Jim Riches is commemorated in various ways, including a street in Brooklyn named after his son and scholarships established in Jimmy Jr.’s honor. His funeral service on December 1 drew large crowds, illustrating the deep respect for his contributions to the firefighting community. Bagpipes played as he received a somber tribute from fellow firefighters.

Throughout his life, Riches remained committed to supporting the families affected by the tragedy. His memory lives on in the advocacy work he championed for 9/11 victims and their families, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. Riches’ statement about the heroes of 9/11 encapsulates his enduring mission: “These people were heroes who were attacked on this land, and they don’t deserve to be forgotten.”