Description Metal memorial bracelet created in memory of Carlos R. Lillo. The bracelet is engraved: "Paramedic Carlos Lillo | FDNY Battalion 49."
Historical Notes Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Carlos Lillo moved to New York City with his family at age 14. He lived in North Babylon, Long Island, with his wife, Haydee Cecilia. In his 16-year career in emergency medical services, Carlos helped deliver 36 babies—one mother chose to name her son after him. On September 11, Paramedic Lillo responded to the South Tower with the FDNY’s EMS Battalion 49. He was 37 years old.
Curator's Comment Building on a tradition begun during the Vietnam War era to remember American prisoners of war and those missing in action, bracelets bearing the names of victims emerged after 9/11 as a way to honor those killed in the attacks. Some bracelets also bear personal inscriptions and images, including the American flag, the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, and insignia reflecting a victim’s status as a first responder. Whether worn by relatives and friends of the victim or by empathetic strangers, 9/11 memorial bracelets created an intimate connection to individual victims while also communicating a shared sense of loss and compassion. HIDE