Remember Those Lost On 9/11 And The Hero Responders Who Have Lost Their Lives

By Peter Hanson 

A few years ago I was flying through Chicago’s busy O’Hare International Airport on 9/11. I purposely wore a shirt with a 9/11 logo. A reminder of the day that has stayed fresh in my memory since 2001. As I navigated the airport I looked for someone, anyone, who would also be remembering 9/11. I found none.

One woman, while passing me, commented, “Oh, it’s 9/11”.

Next year will be the twentieth anniversary of the World Trade Center (WTC) tragedy.  Americans across the country will be reminded of the events that occurred on that day. We will pause and remember those who died.

Many do not know about all that happened at the WTC site after 9/11/01. History tells us that memories of significant events fade after twenty years. Many first responders rushed in to assist in the search for people and many people from all walks of life assisted in the clean-up.

Here in Nesconset, we have created a site which honors those who worked at the demolished WTC and who sadly, over they years succumbed to illnesses incurred.

The 911 Responders Remembered Park began with a dream of John Feal. John worked at the WTC site and was seriously injured. His time at the site inspired him to form a mission to create a park to remember the workers.

Feal shared his vision and a committee consisting of local residents was formed. For years money was privately raised through dinners, marches, etc. with the goal to open the Park on the ten year anniversary of 9/11. Land was donated by Vincent Monaco, owner of Little Vinny’s Pizzeria. Mark Mancini, architect, designed the Park pro bono. 

Local residents James Ryder, Marty Aponte and Eroll Toulon have each served terms as president of 911 Responders Remembered Park currently, Judi Simmons serves as president.  John Feal serves as chairman of the board.  

We completed the mission to honor and recognize the heroes who have died, and continue to die and 911 Responders Remembered Park successfully opened on 9/10/11. Sadly since the park officially opened we have placed the names of hundreds of fathers, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts and friends on our memorial walls.

In the beginning most of the fallen were young; in their twenties and thirties with young children. Now those passing are in their forties and fifties; grandparents. Those of us who bear the pain will never forget those we lost. We continue to add names yearly at a somber but uplifting ceremony.

Join us on Saturday, September 12 at 10:00 am. The Park’s location is at the corner of Smithtown Blvd. and Gibbs Pond Rd, Nesconset.

Peter Hanson is a Nesconset resident and a member of the 911 Responders Remembered Committee