[Photos, Video] Clarkstown Reflects on 9/11

The small fountain plaza in front of Clarkstown Town Hall was crowded with residents, officials, firefighters, police, veterans and other community members. Many attended Clarkstown's annual September 11th memorial ceremony, which took place at the 9/11 monument. 

"It was a very good ceremony and very necessary. They did an excellent job," said Kenneth Walters of New City and the VFW 851 Clarkstown Memorial Post. "It was a beautiful, sad day."

Police Chaplain David Lothrop and Supervisor Alex Gromack had some remarks. Gromack, members of the town board and Police Chief Michael Sullivan read the names of those lost in the September 11 tragedies as well as Robert W. Fitzpatrick who died in the 1993 WTC bombing. 

“The ceremony was very dignified and touching,” said John and Ginny Wall of West Nyack. “It brings back memories and feelings that we can’t forget. It’s a shame to throw away the lives of all the people who have sacrificed for this nation. Freedom isn’t free and we need to maintain our democracy. You can’t forget the death of a child. It’s a heartbreak forever.”

The pledge was led by the Novotny family, the Clarkstown Police Honor Guard presented the colors, and the Farruggia family sang the National Anthem and God Bless America. 

"It was a beautiful ceremony and well organized and thought out," said Cristina Farruggia. "The weather was gorgeous. It was a day of remembrance.”

“So much goes on in your life and this gives you a chance to stop and remember,” said Robert Farruggia.

Refreshments followed at the American Legion Post 1682, which was sponsored by the Florian Association of Rockland County

Here's a look at other 9/11 events that occured around the county: