Thursday, October 1, 2026
Valley Stream gathered as a community to remember the victims, survivors and first responders of the 9/11 attacks. The annual ceremony served as a solemn occasion of mourning and reflection, while also expressing gratitude for the courage and sacrifice shown that day.
Held on Sept. 11 at 6 p.m., the program began with a call to order by Judge Robert G. Bogle, followed by the presentation of colors by American Legion Post 854 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1790.
Introductory remarks led into the Pledge of Allegiance, and the ceremony continued with the National Anthem, performed by Nicolette Bett, a Kellenberg Memorial High School senior and Valley Stream resident.
The invocation was offered by Father Daniel O’Brien, chaplain of the Valley Stream Fire Department. His words called for comfort for families still mourning, healing for those impacted by recovery efforts, and strength for future generations to carry forward the legacy of courage and service.
“As we gather here to remember and mourn the loss 24 years ago today of so many we loved dearly and lost tragically and unjustly,” O’Brien said. “We also gather with a profound sense of gratitude, grateful that we knew these men and women, even if they were taken from us much too soon.”
Reflections that followed emphasized the enduring significance of courage, sacrifice and devotion. Mayor Edwin Fare addressed the community, reminding all of the lasting emotional weight of the tragedy and the importance of teaching its history to younger generations. He also emphasized the importance of unity amid division and expressed gratitude for the spirit of service and diversity within Valley Stream.
“Look at our brave uniformed firefighters and first responders, look at our young people, from the smallest Scout to the same young adults that came along after September 11, 2001,” Fare said. “Look at each other, religious leaders, educators, public servants, citizens of every profession and from every cultural and ethnic background, the wonderful neighbors of our community. Each of you are special in your own way, committed to the ideals that we are here for each other.”
The program included the placing of three wreaths at the base of the monument, carried out by the fire department, local scouts and elected officials. Following this tribute, Bett returned to lead the singing of “God Bless America.”
Community leaders, veterans’ groups, clergy, educators and residents were recognized for their presence, reflecting the wide reach of the tragedy and the collective strength found in remembrance.
The closing benediction was led by Reverend Steven Milazzo of Bethlehem Assembly of God.
“Let us leave this place always remembering that life overcomes darkness, that love overcomes hatred and that truth overcomes deception,” Milazzo said.
The ceremony closed with a performance of “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes as flowers were placed on the village’s memorial in honor of the fallen.
