Clarkstown Marks 9/11 Anniversary with Solemn Ceremony

By Rick Pezzullo

A solemn ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States took place Sept. 11 at Town of Clarkstown 9/11 Memorial Park at Town Hall.

More than 100 residents, officials and first responders were on hand to remember the 2,977 innocent lives that were lost in 2001, including the 26 residents of Clarkstown.

“It’s hard to believe 25 years have past because so many of us remember that day so vividly,” said Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann. “Those who lost loved ones will never fully heal.”

Hoehmann noted he was at the White House recently when Welles Remy Crowther, a resident of Upper Nyack, was posthumously honored with the presidential honor of freedom award for his heroic actions at the World Trade Center.

Known as the man wearing the red bandana, Crowther, who was 24 years old, is credited with saving 18 lives after the Twin Towers were struck before he was killed when the buildings collapsed.

“He gave his own life to selflessly help others,” Hoehmann said. “The best of humanity rose from the ashes.”

Master of Ceremonies Rev. David S. Lothrop spoke about the importance of never forgetting that horrific day that forever changed the way of life for everyone.

“Together we stand, together we heal,” he said. “Twenty-five years ago, our nation was attacked by those trying to destroy the American dream. How wrong they were.”

The Stars and Stripes Club at Clarkstown South High School remembered the fallen by placing 2,977 mini-American flags on the lawn heading into the school.