Sixteen Years Later, 9/11 Victims Remembered
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By Janee Law
jlaw@longislandergroup.com
Since the 9/11 attack 16 years ago, the Town of Huntington has continued to remember those who lost their lives and those who assisted in the rescue and recovery efforts that day with an annual ceremony held in Heckscher Park.
On Monday, one by one, the 43 names of the Huntington residents killed in the attacks were read with a bell salute, as roses were placed in front of the memorial walkway.
Family members of the victims were also in attendance during the ceremony, including the family and friends of James Brian Reilly, a 25-year-old bond trader for Keefe, Bruyette & Woods from Huntington who died in the south tower.
Christine, Reilly’s twin sister, said that the day is dedicated to spending time together as a family and remember the times they shared with James.
“Jimmy continues to watch over all of us,” she said. “We grew up here in Huntington so it’s always important to come back to Heckscher Park because it’s nice to have a remembrance in your hometown.”
Huntington Supervisor Frank Petrone called the ceremony a “very solemn one.”
He continued, “It’s a time for all of us to reflect individually about our loved ones, our country and where we were and where we are today.”
Along with Petrone, speakers at the ceremony included town council members Susan Berland, Eugene Cook, Mark Cuthbertson and Tracey Edwards, Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia and Receiver of Taxes Ester Bivona.
Also in attendance were the Huntington Detachment Marine Corps League 792, VFW Elwood/Commack 9263, Greenlawn American Legion 1244, Northport American Legion 694, and the Greenlawn American Legion Patriot Riders.
