9/11 Not Forgotten In Essex County; Tributes Happen Across Region

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The tragedies of September 11th haven’t been forgotten in Essex County.

On Sunday, people across the region gathered to mourn for their loved ones and pay tribute to the other victims on the 21st anniversary of 9/11. With its close proximity to New York City and the dozens of local victims who died in the attacks, Essex County has an especially poignant relationship to the tragic events of that day.

“After the attacks, people spontaneously came to Eagle Rock Reservation to view the tragedy unfold at the Twin Towers and leave cards, letters, photos and flowers in an impromptu memorial in honor of their loved ones,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. recently recalled ahead of the county’s annual ceremony, which took place again this year.

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U.S. Reps. Donald Payne Jr. and Mikie Sherrill, who each represents several towns and cities in Essex County, expressed sympathy for the victims – and cheered the resilience of the United States in the wake of the attacks.

“During today's Sept. 11, 2001 ceremony in Essex County, I wanted to take time to read all the names of the 57 Essex County residents we lost during that tragic day,” Payne wrote. “It's very humbling and moving for me to read the names. My prayers continue to go out to their families.”

Sherrill, a former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, said she continues to remember the pain, the terror, and the tremendous loss that shook the nation on Sept. 11, 2001.

The congresswoman said:

“We all remember the pain, the terror, and the tremendous loss that shook the nation on September 11, 2001. On this tragic day, 749 New Jerseyans died, more than 90 of whom resided in the 11th Congressional District. Today, we mourn those we lost, recognize the bravery and sacrifice of those who responded in the aftermath, offer comfort to the families who continue to grieve, and honor the courage and resilience of our country in the wake of immense tragedy. Thousands of Americans who risked their lives in courageous efforts to save others and clear the destruction are now dealing with the long-term medical and mental health consequences of the attack. We must continue to support the survivors, first responders, and veterans who answered the call in the aftermath of one of our nation's darkest days, as well as their families and the families of those we lost. Twenty-one years after terror and hate conspired to break us, America stands tall, and America stands proud. Today, I will be with my community, gathering to honor our families, friends, and neighbors, as we do every year, to ensure we never forget.”

Throughout Essex County, similar messages of solidarity, hope and mourning resounded on Sunday. Here are just a few of them, as seen on social media.

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