PHOTOS: Bay Ridge comes together to remember 9/11

Fourteen years later, Bay Ridge is more united than ever.

Families of fallen heroes, local residents, elected officials and more gathered at the American Veterans Memorial Pier at 69th Street on Friday, September 11 to join State Senator Marty Golden as he presented the 14^th Annual September 11 Memorial.

“Tonight we continue to show terrorists across the globe that despite their cowardly attempts to destroy our great nation, brave Americans stood tall and we are more united than ever,” said Golden, a retired New York City police officer, remembering – among other things – how Bay Ridge came together, and continues to come together, in the face of tragedy. “We will continue to honor the memories of those that have given their lives and continue to give their lives this very day from September 11.”

Complete with prayer, musical selections by Therese Panicali and a 21 gun salute by the Joint Task Force Empire Shield, the memorial brought both the young and old together in solidarity.

“September 11 is not just a day to grieve, it is also a day to remember how great and how strong New York City and our country remains,” said U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hamilton Commander Colonel Joseph Davidson. “No act of terror can destroy that strength or tear at our will to stand up for our inherent rights and protect freedom globally.”

The remembrance concluded with Taps, performed by the Xaverian High School band, followed by the release of nine and 11 yellow balloons, Amazing Grace as performed by Xaverian High School Pipe and Drums, a closing prayer by Chaplain Major Tracy Hudgins, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hamilton and a closing song presented by Sargent Louis Licalzi.

“Our sadness on this solemn day will never cease,” said Golden, “and for that, we shall never forget.”