Fox News' Eric Shawn reveals cancer and respiratory illness from 9/11 toxic dust

"I have two different diagnoses under the World Trade Center Program," he revealed, referencing the federal program that provides monitoring and treatment for survivors, responders and others directly affected in New York, at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

"It is hard to believe that it has been nearly a quarter of a century since that day, when radical Islamic terrorism attacked the very heart of our city and our country," Shawn said.

"It is a philosophy that basically hates our principles, our freedoms, what our nation stands for. That has not diminished - and today, again, we all gather here to remember what was lost."

The tragedy extends far beyond that day, he emphasized.

More than 3,700 first responders have died since 9/11, including 2,300 who had cancer. The Fire Department of the City of New York has been hit especially hard, with 409 of its members lost to post-9/11 illnesses.

"I think of all those who were killed that day and those who continue to suffer because of that philosophy - that is not diminished. We have to condemn it. We have to despise it. You will never forget."

Shawn's own diagnosis came decades later, in the form of a bronchitis-related respiratory issue and then a cancer diagnosis just this year.

"Back then, I remember thinking, maybe in 20, 30 years later I'll get something. Well, here it is, 24 years."

Shawn emphasized the importance of coming together as a nation: "We're all in this together. I mean, we are. We are all in it together."