New Jersey is marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks today, with U.S. and state flags ordered to fly at half-staff across the state.
Governor Mikie Sherrill signed Executive Order No. 23 directing the lowering of the flags on Friday, September 11, in remembrance of those killed in the attacks and the first responders whose lives were forever changed by the events of that day.
Approximately 750 New Jersey residents were among the nearly 3,000 people killed on September 11, 2001. Thousands of first responders and other New Jerseyans also traveled to the disaster sites to assist with rescue and recovery operations. Many later developed serious health problems linked to their exposure during those efforts.
“Twenty-five years later, we remember the New Jerseyans and everyone whose lives were taken on September 11, 2001, and we stand with the families who continue to carry their loss,” Sherrill said in announcing the order. She also recalled serving as a young Naval officer at the time and witnessing both the tragedy and the response of first responders and service members.
Across the United States, ceremonies are being held today at the World Trade Center site in New York, the Pentagon, and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania, along with local commemorations in communities throughout the country.
September 11 is observed nationally as Patriot Day and a National Day of Service and Remembrance, honoring the victims, survivors, first responders and others affected by the attacks.
Sources: New Jersey Department of State; Associated Press
By NJ RADAR Team