In a week full of ceremonies honoring those lost on Sept. 11, 2001, one event Wednesday focused on preserving the memory of not only police, firefighters and those lost in the attacks, but also those who are considered forgotten heroes: The Good Samaritans who assisted police and firefighters and are still suffering from illnesses caused by breathing in toxic air at Ground Zero.
More than 100 people gathered as the Harbormen Barbershop Chorus harmonized the National Anthem while U. S. service members raised the American flag to half mast at the Hauppauge-based Freedom Tower Cornerstone Memorial Garden, which is anchored by a granite block that was originally part of the World Trade Center rebuilding plans. Those in the crowd included Ground Zero first responders as well as many families of 9/11 victims. The Northport Pipe and Drum Band then played Amazing Grace while 11 white “peace doves” were released.
“When they talk about 9/11, they talk about the heroes, the first responders,” said John Feal, a construction worker who founded the FealGood Foundation, an advocacy group for ailing responders, after he was injured during the cleanup. “Cops and firefighters are everyday heroes. You don’t need 9/11 to call them heroes. But when 9/11 came, non-uniform people came to the needs of New York and this country. Everyday men and everyday women shined.”
Click here to see more pictures of the Freedom Tower Cornerstone Garden event.
Feal highlighted the story of Chris Longley, owner of Water Pure and Simple, a water bottle company that provided cold water for first responders. Longley is suffering from lungs ailments and is awaiting a double lung transplant.
A bucket was passed around to collect donations for Longley, his wife, and two sons. Whatever amount was raised was matched by Innovative Stone, the company that created the Freedom Tower Cornerstone and hosted the event.
“Today, I realized what sacrifice people have given for our country and they are still sacrificing,” said Karen Pearse, CEO of Innovative Stone.
“September 11 was a dark day in American history but we need not endure that day in vain,” said one keynote speaker, Sarah Wingerath, director of mentoring for Tuesday’s Children, an advocacy group that helps the children of 9/11 victims.
U.S. Reps Tim Bishop (D-Southampton) and Steve Israel (D-Huntington) were on hand to express their support for the proposed James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, known as the Zadroga Bill, which would provide healthcare compensation for 9/11 responders. The congressmen are hopeful that the bill will be passed when it comes up for a vote again in two weeks.
Feal urged the public to continue keeping these victims’ memories alive. “This Saturday, do what you have to do but take five minutes to remember those we’ve lost that day, those that are sick and dying,” he said.
The inscription on the Freedom Tower Cornerstone reads: “To honor and remember those who lost their live on Sept. 11, 2001 and as a tribute to the enduring spirit of freedom.”
By Elaine Piniat