By Jennifer Marino
The short ceremony commemorated those from the Rockville Centre who were lost on Sept. 11. It was the third time the community had come together to remember the victims. The green is also the site of the village's granite memorial and garden.
"Let this memorial remind us also that no community responded to the challenge of 9/11 with more good will, generosity and genuine feeling for others," said Mayor Eugene Murray. Those in attendance lit candles, one light being transferred to the next, as the mayor spoke.
After a prayer by Father Augustine Addai of St. Agnes Cathedral, members of the "We Care" committee read the names of those who died from Rockville Centre.
Teresa Cove, who lost her husband James, gave a heartfelt speech. She spoke of the comfort the memorial has offered those who lost loved ones. It reminds them of the "beautiful souls" of their loved ones. "Take comfort in the hope of unexpected signs from heaven," she said.
Children were also included in the ceremony, Danny Mueller and Rachel Hannon led the crowd in the pledge of allegiance.
Rabbi Marc Gruber of Central Synagogue offered a benediction. "We burn these candles to remember their commitment, their courage," he said.
Superintendent of Parks and Recreation Anthony Brunetta thanked everyone for their participation and attendees were encouraged to linger at the memorial for as long as they wanted.
