In poignant, somber, and moving remembrance dedications to local heroes lost from 9/11, St. John’s Episcopal Church and the Common Ground in Sayville captured the community’s genuflection to the victims of the terrorist attack over 20 years ago.

In attendance at both ceremonies was assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo (R-7th District), who said, “Our local remembrance ceremonies in Sayville and Oakdale were powerful and moving tributes to the lives that were lost on Sept. 11, 2001.”

In regards to the numerous community groups present at both, Gandolfo said, “I am so grateful for the community groups that continue to organize these important ceremonies—their dedication ensures that we will never forget the lives lost and sacrifices made.”

Legis. Anthony Piccirillo (R-8th District) was also in attendance at both.

He said, “After 21 years, it still means a lot to the community that we have 9/11 remembrance ceremonies to remember that fateful day. Never forgetting means always remembering the countless families in our community who lost loved ones, the heroes who rushed into the towers, and those still suffering from 9/11-related diseases.”

Piccirillo called on the community to continue to give thanks and solemnity to those who perished from the events of that day and said, “It’s incumbent on all of us to keep the memories alive of those we have lost from this cowardly act of terror and educate future generations on what this day means to all of us. May God continue to bless America.”