This morning, in commemoration of the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th attacks and in honor of those lives lost, as well as to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of our fellow Americans that day and in the years to follow, Mayor Rob Arace, members of the Township Council, Chief of Police Robert Dolan, Department Heads, Volunteer Fire Company members, and special guests joined our residents for a remembrance ceremony at the Manchester Town Hall.

“We come together to pay tribute to the brave men and women, who selflessly sacrificed their lives to save others. And to remember those who perished in the tragic events that unfolded on that day, September 11, 2001,” said Mayor Arace in his remarks. “It is a day in the collective memory of our nation. It was the day that tested our strength, resilience and unity in the face of unspeakable tragedy.”

To honor those among our neighbors lost, Councilman Joseph Hankins read the names of each Ocean County resident lost on September 11th, including Manchester Township resident Cira Patti.

The Mayor also issued a Proclamation in recognition of September 11th, honoring the profound ways in which this day has touched so many lives and brought out the best in our Country’s character.

Highlights from the ceremony included a keynote address from Chaplain Daniel R. Schafer, who spoke movingly about the role first responders played in the aftermath of the attack. 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 performances throughout the ceremony included “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 the Whiting Volunteer Fire Company, Manchester Volunteer Fire Company, Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company, Manchester Division of Emergency Services, and local Scout organizations.

We will never forget.