Port Jefferson Remembers 9-11 on 13th Anniversary

Today marks the 13th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks on the United States of America. Many families, first responders and complete strangers come together and still mourn the loss of love ones, friends and first responders that lost their lives on that tragic day. On this thirteenth anniversary, many communities throughout Long Island and the nation will come together to remember the day when four commercial airlines were hijacked to commit the single-worst tragedy to occur on American soil.

One small knit community on the north shore of Long Island, NY once again came together at a memorial ceremony in the small village of Port Jefferson. Many people were recognized at this morning’s service which took place at the main firehouse on Maple Place. Members of the Port Jefferson Fire Department planned well in advance with their hard-work and dedication to pay tribute to the men and women who were lost during the attacks. Dressed In blue uniform donning white gloves and black mourning band covering of badges, members of the Port Jefferson Fire Department and Port Jefferson Volunteer Ambulance Corps stood in silence as 1st assistant chief Charles Russo and Ex-Captain Desmond O’Sulivan addressed the crowd.

A red, white and blue wreath was placed at the firefighter’s memorial that sits proudly on the grounds of the Port Jefferson Fire Department. Local and state officials stood side by side with members of the community surrounded by heroic first responders as the names of first responders lost from the Town of Brookhaven were read. Port Jefferson Firefighter Dave Loper read the names while choking back tears as the attacks of September 11th are still fresh 13 years later. Bagpipes and a bugle could be heard at points during the ceremony, while a bell was sounded to signify the times of each attack on America.

Elementary school students from Edna Louise Spears Elementary School preformed the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America to signify the strength and resilience Americans have and the fight our men and woman of the armed forces and emergency services fight every day. Finally a moment of silence was observed before community members thanked first responders thanked personally for the sacrifice they make every day as volunteers to the community. Other communities will hold ceremonies just like this to honor and pay tribute as well. Setauket Fire Department is scheduled to pay tribute at their memorial park at the firehouse on Nicholls Road later tonight. Although the time since the attacks has passed it doesn’t get any easier for family, friends, first responders and complete strangers to grip with the events that occurred on September 11, 2001.