Wall Township Marks Solemn Anniversary

The victims of the September 11, 2001, attacks were remembered in a short but solemn ceremony at town hall Sunday.

Local politicians, residents and emergency workers at noon gathered on a hill between two maple trees where the town’s memorial had been designated for the township residents killed in the attacks a decade ago.

Mayor Ann Marie Conte, flanked by Deputy Mayor Jeffrey Foster and committeemen Clinton Hoffman and Todd Luttman, said a few words before reading a resolution calling for township residents to observe a moment of silence to mark the 10th anniversary of the attacks that killed more than 3,000 in New York City, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania.

“As we think back to that day and the days that followed that event it brings back the full, and stark reality of a time and of places that will never be forgotten by all those who lived through that dark day, and the days that followed,” Conte said.

Members of the town’s First Aid squads, Fire Department and Police department laid roses at the foot of a flag display set up for the occasion.

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The full text of Mayor Ann Marie Conte's remarks at Sunday's ceremony:

"Good morning everyone thank you for all taking the time to join myself, Mayor Ann Conte, Deputy Mayor Jeff Foster, Committeeman Clint Hoffman and Committeeman Todd Luttman for the 9-11 remembrance ceremony and placing of the wreath in honor of the 10th anniversary of September 11.  

It is an honor and privilege to reflect on this National Day of service and remembrance particularly as we reflect and honor those who lost their lives 10 years ago today. It is appropriate and just that we all gather here today, residents, fire companies, first aid squads and the Wall Township police in this beautiful setting in Wall Township to reflect, focus and give our undivided attention at this time to the events of September 11, 2001, and the days and years that followed.  

As each one of us reflects on and relives those tragic hours and days of 9-11 we should think of how the events changed our lives and the lives of all Americans. We as Americans vow never to forget the horrible tragedy and bravery exhibited by all responders and citizens who performed countless acts of extraordinary courage during that day and the days that were to follow.  

When I reflect on that day, I am reminded of courage by countless individuals, which was unselfish, spontaneous and with compassion. The courage came in those who fought and lost their lives: our citizens, soldiers, first responders, mothers, fathers, brothers sisters and friends. We must also not forget the bravery of those on the flight 93, who confronted the attackers over the skies of Pennsylvania so that others would live and lives not lost. They are true heroes who supported our freedom and defended the security of the United States of America.  

Let us not forget the many first responders and citizens who courageously continue to suffer from health related issues who fought so bravely risking and sacrificing their lives for all man kind on that tragic day. Let us not forget in our hearts the families who lost loved ones wives, husbands, children, brother, sister and friends.  

And finally as we all courageously stand here together, we as a community continue to respond to and recover from the lasting effects of that day and years which have passed. Our first responders continue to always be prepared for our community and we thank you for that. Lastly, we must all continue to memorialize all those lost on that day. They protected our freedom and with this placing of the wreath, roses and American flags, the legacy of their lives will be preserved and an inspiration for generations to come. I hope all will visit this site, pay tribute to those who fought bravely and lost their lives."