Merrick F.D. marks 9/11

The Merrick Fire Department marked the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with a memorial ceremony at Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue in Merrick on Sunday.

The emotional ceremony honored Ronnie Gies and Brian Sweeney, two Merrick volunteer firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice when the twin towers collapsed. At the time, they were on the job as New York City firefighters.

Residents from across Merrick were on hand to pay their respects, while firefighters addressed the large crowd. Local elected leaders such as New York State Sen. Charles Fuschillo, Assemblyman David McDonough and Nassau County Legislator Dave Denenberg also attended.

The Merrick Fire Department recently received two steel beams from the World Trade Center. At the ceremony, fire volunteers dedicated the beams and added them to the memorial, where they will remain on display.

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