A Ground Zero story we must not forget

To the editor,

On Sept. 11, my brother, William F. Burke Jr. of Engine Co. 21, gave his life at the World Trade Center. I worked with Monica Iken-Murphy and many other family members on several Ground Zero/9/11 issues more than two decades ago.

She is, of course, right when she speaks about the need to educate new generations on Sept. 11 — particularly since, as recent events overseas and at home have shown us, the threat of extremism and terrorism is still very much with us.

This is why I fought for a decade to preserve the iconic Koenig Sphere at the WTC site. Battered in the attacks, it miraculously survived intact in the center of the plaza. Its scars speak directly to the violence and extremism that struck; its survival speaks to the strength and resilience of the values of autonomy and plurality that were targeted.

Banned from the memorial as a direct and immediate reminder of the attacks, it now stands in Liberty Park overlooking the site from the south. It is the only authentic artifact of the WTC above ground and available for free viewing 24/7. No visit to the memorial is incomplete without seeing it.

MICHAEL BURKE