Monmouth County Sponsoring A “Tribute In Lights” For 9/11

A flag outside the Gateway Building at Ocean County College flies at half-staff. (Photo by Sara Grillo)

  ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS – Remembering those lost during September 11, 2001, and the courageous displays of heroism by first responders, rescue teams and citizens during that tragic day, a special ceremony has been planned.

 The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders will sponsor a “Tribute in Lights” for three nights beginning on Friday, September 11.

  Freeholder Lillian G. Burry said, “whether at an organized ceremony or privately, everyone should be granted the opportunity to honor and remember the tragic events that occurred on 9/11.,”

  Burry who serves as the liaison to the Monmouth County Park System said, “now 19 years later, we remember those who died and recognize the thousands who survived. We remember American freedoms and liberties and we reaffirm our commitment to defend freedom against all enemies.”

  The lights will be illuminated from sunset to 11 p.m. on September. 11, September 12 and September 13. The lights will be visible from Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook.

  Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone said he and his fellow Freeholders felt “that it was incredibly important to sponsor these tribute lights to commemorate the 19th anniversary of the tragic attacks that occurred on 9/11.”

  “For the families of those lost and to those who are still fighting illnesses stemming from the cleanup, please know Monmouth County will never forget. We especially remember the 147 men and women who called our county home,” Arnone added.

  At 266 feet, this overlook in Atlantic Highlands sits on the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic seaboard (excluding islands) from Maine to the Yucatan providing views of Sandy Hook, Sandy Hook Bay, Raritan Bay and the New York skyline.

  This 12-acre site is also home to Monmouth County’s 9/11 Memorial. There were 147 people from Monmouth County who perished on September 11, 2001 in attacks by terrorists. For days and weeks afterward, people visited Mount Mitchill to reflect and remember.

   A year after the attacks, the Monmouth County 9/11 Committee formed and started plans for a fitting tribute to the victims, heroes, and events of September 11.

  The group’s first responsibility was to select a memorial to fit into Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook. The 9/11 Committee then embarked on a major fundraising effort to finance the Memorial.

  By midsummer 2005 the group exceeded its goal by raising $296,000. Further donations are being directed to support the upkeep and maintenance of the Memorial.