MORRIS COUNTY, NJ – This September, Morris County will once again gather to remember, reflect, and honor the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The 24th Annual Morris County 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony will take place Sunday, September 7, at 6:00 p.m. at the Morris County 9/11 Memorial, located at 460 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The solemn tradition—organized each year by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners—brings together residents, first responders, elected officials, and families of those directly impacted by the tragedy. It serves not only as a tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost nationwide but also as a deeply personal remembrance of the 64 Morris County residents who never returned home that day.
A Keynote from a Firsthand Witness to History
This year’s keynote speaker is Rudy Sanfilippo, a former FDNY firefighter and Manhattan union representative who was on the ground during one of the darkest days in American history. On September 11, 2001, Sanfilippo was among the first firefighters to arrive at the South Tower command post. He stayed until the last possible moment before the building collapsed—thrown to the ground by the force of the pancaking floors.
Incredibly, when he emerged from the debris, he was the only firefighter within 50 feet still alive. In the weeks and months that followed, Sanfilippo dedicated himself to ensuring his fellow firefighters and their families were treated with dignity during recovery efforts at Ground Zero. His words this year will carry the weight of lived experience, resilience, and unwavering service.
Ceremony Program and Tributes
The remembrance ceremony will feature:
- Opening Procession – Police, fire, and EMS personnel will march in solidarity.
- Invocation – Offered by Rev. Herman Scott of Calvary Baptist Church.
- Reading of Names – The 64 Morris County residents lost in the attacks will be individually honored.
- Candle Lighting – A symbolic act of memory and hope.
- Musical Tributes – Performances by the Police Pipes and Drums of Morris County, the Morris Choral Society, and the duet Darren O’Neill and Ereni Sevasti will fill the evening with both reverence and resolve.
The Morris County 9/11 Memorial itself is a powerful symbol of remembrance. Ruby-colored stones engraved with the names of every victim surround the site, while brass plaques on the inner wall specifically honor each local resident lost.
Public Attendance and Participation
The community is encouraged to attend and pay their respects. As seating at the memorial is limited, attendees are advised to bring lawn chairs.
Parking will be available at the Morris County Department of Human Services (340 West Hanover Avenue, Morris Township), with shuttle service running to and from the memorial site.
First responder agencies wishing to participate in the procession may send one apparatus per department and assemble by 4:30 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Academy (500 West Hanover Avenue).
Why This Matters More Than Ever
While more than two decades have passed, the impact of 9/11 continues to be felt by families, first responders, and communities across the nation. For Morris County, this annual gathering is not simply about looking back—it’s about ensuring the memories of those lost remain part of our collective identity. It’s about honoring the heroism displayed that day and reaffirming the values of unity, compassion, and resilience.
To explore more community events and meaningful gatherings in New Jersey, visit our Entertainment section. To learn more about the event, click here.
