Plaque Memorializes 9 Rhode Islanders Lost On 9/11

PROVIDENCE, RI — A plaque bearing the names of the nine Rhode Islanders who died in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack was unveiled at the State House on Wednesday. Governor Gina Raimondo and members of the General Assembly gathered to dedicate the plaque and commemorate the solemn anniversary.

"For nearly two decades, the 9/11 memorial has served as an important, sobering reminder to all who visit the State House that Rhode Island suffered greatly on September 11. Now, with the names of those we lost forever engraved on its face, we can ensure that future generations will never forget the personal cost of that day," Gov. Raimondo said. "It is our honor and our duty to ensure that the memories of the Rhode Islanders we lost in the attacks live on."

The ceremony took place by the state's 9/11 memorial, which was commissioned by then-Governor Lincoln Almond. Last year, the General Assembly passed a bill calling for the Department of Administration to add the names of the nine Rhode Island victims.

"September 11 is a somber day for Americans as we reflect on our values and remember the lives that were lost and the true bravery that was exhibited in the aftermath of this devastating attack," said Rep. Samuel Azzinaro, the chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs."This memorial will be a testament to the innocent lives that fell, the selflessness that was displayed, and the resiliency and strength of our great country."

The ceremony also acknowledged law enforcement members, first responders and memebers of the military died in the War on Terror.

The ceremony also honored the members of law enforcement, first responders, military and others who lost their lives in the War on Terror.

"Today we permanently memorialize the nine individual Rhode Islanders who perished on September 11, recognizing that each had a unique story, contributed to their families and their communities, and left behind loved ones who will always feel that devastating loss," said Senate President Pro Tempore Harold Metts. "This monument with their names is a testament to tell all subsequent generations of Rhode Islanders of the very real human toll taken by extremism and terrorism, as well as the incredible response of our nation: unity. It’s my hope that this monument will always remind us that America is strongest and closest to its ideals when its people are united and focused on what we share, rather than on our differences."

The nine Rhode Islanders memorialized on the plaque are:

• David Lawrence Angell
• Carol Marie Bouchard
• Mark Lawrence Charette
• James Edward Hayden
• Amy Nicole Jarret
• Kathryn L. Laborie
• Shawn M. Nassaney
• Renee Tetreault Newell
• Jessica Leigh Sachs