This morning, our community came together in solemn remembrance of the 24th 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, Council President Roxanne Conniff, members of the Township Council, Chief of Police Antonio Ellis, department heads, emergency first responders, and esteemed guests gathered for a remembrance ceremony at Manchester Town Hall.
“We gather not only to remember the tragedy of September 11th, but also to reaffirm our commitment to unity, resilience, and the values that bind us as a community and as a nation,” said Council President Conniff, who delivered opening remarks. “Today, in a world where we so often find ourselves divided, let us carry that same spirit of community forward.”
Councilmember Sandy Drake, a retired Manchester Township Police Officer who spent time in New York City following the attacks, delivered the keynote address, recalling the time she and other department members spent at ground zero.
“The weeks that followed were life-changing for so many, including myself,” she said. “People across the country came together to help out in any way possible. The Manchester Township Police Department was no exception.”
To honor those among our neighbors lost, Chief Ellis read the names of each Ocean County resident who perished on September 11th, including Manchester Township resident Cira Patti. Council President Conniff then read a Proclamation issued by Mayor Joseph Hankins in recognition of September 11th, honoring the profound ways in which this day has touched so many lives.
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 Athens Licitra performed “Taps.” A patriotic musical tribute featuring “God Bless America” was performed by Rev. Dr. Frank Watson.
On behalf of Mayor Hankins, the Township Council, and our entire Manchester Township community, 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.