MONMOUTH COUNTY – A memorial ceremony was held the morning of September 11 to commemorate those who perished in the 2001 terrorist attacks. The memorial, hosted by Monmouth County elected officials, was held at the Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook in direct view of the New York City skyline.
Gathered at the 8 a.m. memorial were various groups of people, including the elected officials, active and veteran members of the U.S. Navy and military, and the families and loved ones of victims of the attacks.
Among the memorial grounds were monuments and plaques that have been on display since 2005, but on this day there were also 147 red and white carnations present.
“There are 147 carnations, one for each [Monmouth County resident] who perished [in the attacks],” said Monmouth County Commissioner Deputy Director Ross Licitra. “According to Greek and Roman traditions, red carnations symbolize admiration and respect for the deceased. Today, we stand here to show our respect for those we lost. White carnations represent grief, sorrow and innocence. Every single day since the terrorist attacks we have grieved the innocent people we have lost. We gather with loved ones to admire them and share with us their remarkable contributions.”
In addition to the scattering of carnations throughout the memorial, the ceremony included readings of each name of the fallen residents of Monmouth County as well as a symbolic bell tolling during a timeline of the attacks.
A presentation of the American flag and singing of the National Anthem and other songs were also presented during the memorial in a showing of patriotism.
For both the opening and closing of the ceremony, Reverend Ronald Sparks lead a prayer regarding the day’s importance.
“As we look over the water to the city of New York and remember some 23 years ago, clouds of ashes and smoke filled the air. But today, the sun is shining as we come to remember and honor those who we lost,” he said in his prayer. “We continue to honor the acts of courage from ordinary people who did extraordinary things when called upon.”
According to Commissioner Director Tom Arnone, the purpose of the memorial ceremony was not only to honor and respect those that were lost during the attacks, but to also ensure the county’s promise to never forget the tragic day.
“We think, ‘What’s our job now?’ We are put on this Earth to move forward, to get the message out, to get the word out, to make sure that people never forget,” he said.
Arnone also spoke of his proposal with the state of New Jersey to make September 11 a remembrance day to ensure future generations do not let the attacks go forgotten.
A moment of silence was held at the ceremony for those who lost their lives at the times of the attacks, as well as a half-mast raise of the American flag to commemorate the losses.
Each elected official, as well as members of the Monmouth County parks and recreation board, were wholeheartedly thanked by Licitra. He also expressed gratitude to those who have supported the families, friends and loved ones’ victims of September 11.
Though solemn, the memorial was attended by many members of Monmouth County, filling chairs and seating provided at the memorial. A livestream of the event was watched by over 150 people.
“When you run different events throughout the county, most of the time it is for fun. Most of the time it is for enjoyment,” Arnone said. “But this is because of a passion. A feeling of giving back to all the families here in Monmouth County, to let them know that Monmouth County will never forget.”
