09/11/2026
Today is September 11, 2026.
Twenty-five years ago today, our nation changed forever.
On September 11, 2001, we witnessed unimaginable tragedy, extraordinary courage, and a unity that brought Americans together in the face of tremendous loss.
In the days immediately following the attacks, some of our own brothers from PBA Local 138 answered the call, traveling to New York City to assist with the difficult cleanup and recovery operations. Like so many law enforcement officers, firefighters, first responders, members of the military, and ordinary citizens, they went where they were needed and did what they could to help.
Today, as we mark the 25th anniversary of September 11th, we remember the innocent lives taken, the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice, those who later became ill because of their service at Ground Zero, and the families who continue to carry the weight of that day.
A quarter of a century has now passed since that terrible day.
The uniforms have changed. Careers have begun and ended. Children who were not yet born on that day have now grown into adults. But the passage of time has not diminished what September 11th means to us.
Another fifty years could come and go, and we will still, never forget.
We remember where we were.
We remember those we lost.
We remember those who ran toward danger.
We remember those who answered the call in the days, weeks, and months that followed.
Thank you to our brothers and sisters in the first responder community for all you do everyday and for being in attendance with us today.
Thank you to Dr. Corey Homer and the Sussex County Community College for partnering with us and continuing this incredibly important ceremony.
Many thanks to Bugles Across America, Morris County Pipe & Drums, the Newton High School Choir, and the Sussex County Community College Criminal Justice Program.
Thank you to US Army Col. David Melendez for his inspiring speech today.
Thank you to Dave Manser and New Image Landscaping for their tireless maintenance of the monument.
Thank you to our own Local 138 Brothers, Peter Vex and Dave Perez for organizing this event.
Finally, thank you to ALL those who volunteer so selflessly of their time and help this Sussex County Community.
Today and always, PBA Local 138 remembers.
