Almost sixteen years ago now, the passengers of Flight 93 are still being remembered.

Sunday kicked off the Flight 93 Speaker Series, giving the opportunity for people like Ed Root to share the life story of his cousin Lorraine Bay.

“It’s a way to introduce the people who were on Flight 93 in a more personal level to visitors, so they get to know a little bit more about the personality of the person involved…that was on that flight rather than just a name on the wall,” Root said.   

Bay was the head stewardess aboard Flight 93, a job Root said she took with pride. 

“She just enjoyed people. She enjoyed meeting them, talking to them, helping them, whatever she needed to do,” Root said.  

For Ken Nacke, this event is dedicated to his brother, Louis Nacke II, better known as “Joey,” was also aboard the flight.

“I choose to…honor my brother’s memory…living like my life back in September 10, 2001.I choose not to let the acts of the terrorists win,” Nacke said.

This is the first of four speaker events that will occur throughout the summer.

Both Root and Nacke agree it’s important to honor those who lost their lives, regardless of how many years go by.

For them, a brother, a cousin and all passengers will forever be — heroes.

“You’re talking 40 ordinary individuals who weren’t active military…at that time. And they gave their lives. So that we can continue our lives,” Nacke said.   

“The people on Flight 93 — they wanted to live. I’m sure of that. But they also knew that if they didn’t act something far worse would happen than their own deaths,” Root said.  

The second speaking event is scheduled for some time in June.