This morning, our community came together in solemn remembrance of the 23rd anniversary of the September 11th attacks, paying tribute to the lives lost and acknowledging the courage and sacrifice of those who bravely served on that day and in the years since. Alongside our residents, Mayor Rob Arace, members of the Township Council, Manchester Police Chief Antonio Ellis, Department Heads, emergency responders, and esteemed guests gathered for a remembrance ceremony at Manchester Town Hall.

“We are reminded that in times of great adversity, we as Americans unite stronger, more compassionate, and resilient,” said Mayor Arace in his remarks. “We will forever stand in solidarity with the families affected by 9/11. With our first responders and our brave men and women in uniform, may we continue to serve our community in the same spirit of unity and resilience that defines our country.”

To honor those among our neighbors lost, Council President Roxy Conniff read the names of each Ocean County resident lost on September 11th, including Manchester Township resident Cira Patti.

The Mayor then issued a Proclamation in recognition of September 11th, honoring the profound ways in which this day has touched so many lives. Highlights from the ceremony included a keynote address from EOCS(SCW) Chris Walaszek, also a retired Manchester Township Police Corporal, who spoke movingly about what he personally saw as he responded to New York City in the wake of the attacks and how he served our nation in the military in the years to follow.

“I was proud to serve my country,” he said. “And I was proud to have all the support from the people of the town… Without their support, I don’t know how anyone could survive.”

Rev. Rev. David Rittinger, Whiting Bible Church, delivered the Invocation and Benediction. Additionally, the Manchester Police Honor Guard and Manchester High School ROTC Color Guard performed the Presentation of Colors, and to close the morning’s events Larry Butts performed “Taps.”

Patriotic musical tributes throughout the ceremony included “God Bless America, performed by Rev. Dr. Frank Watson, Christ Lutheran Church, and “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Amazing Grace,” performed by Marisiya Goins.

On behalf of Mayor Arace and the Township Council, thank you to everyone who attended and participated in creating such a memorable event to mark the anniversary of September 11th, including Manchester Recreation, the Whiting Volunteer Fire Company, Manchester Volunteer Fire Company, Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company, Manchester Division of Emergency Services, Manchester Buildings and Grounds, and Manchester High School ROTC Color Guard.

May we never forget.