Patrick and James Dowdell

  • Family Member, Next Generation

Sons of 9/11 victim FDNY Lieutenant Kevin Dowdell, who have honored his service through careers in the military and FDNY.

This story was filmed as part of our 2026 9/11 Anniversary Digital Learning Experience, which introduces students to first-person accounts of the attacks. To participate in our next Digital Learning Experience, visit this page.

Teaching Guides

Find tailored questions below for teaching this story.

  • How do Patrick and James describe their father, Kevin? What was he like? 

  • What were Patrick and James doing on September 11, 2001? 

  • Kevin and Patrick talk about the idea of “Never Forget”. To them, it means helping each other and taking care of those around us. What does Never Forget mean to you? 

  • What were Patrick and James doing on September 11, 2001? How did they describe the days and months after the attacks? 

  • Patrick and James share that the kindness and care that their father showed for others left a deep impression on them. How do the brothers’ career choices reflect Kevin’s influence? 

  • Patrick and James talk about how, for them, “Never Forget” means helping each other, performing acts of service, and keeping their father’s story alive. What does Never Forget mean to you? How can you demonstrate it in your own community?

  • What were Patrick and James’ experiences like on 9/11? How did they respond in the days and months following the attacks?  

  • Patrick and James share that the kindness and care that their father showed for others left a deep impression on them. How do the brothers’ career choices reflect Kevin’s influence? 

  • Patrick and James talk about how, for them, “Never Forget” means helping each other, performing acts of service, and keeping their father’s story alive. What does Never Forget mean to you? How can you participate in keeping the story of 9/11 alive today? 

Additional Resources

Learn more about Patrick and James Dowdell’s story by reading our blog post, Brothers in Service: Honoring Their Father’s Legacy. If you’re interested in hearing from more 9/11 family members, visit our DLE Archive. 

 

 

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