9/11 Ceremony Still a Sober Reminder

With the sharp peel of a silver bell marking the minute the World Trade Center's south tower collapsed on Sept. 11, 2001, Hillsborough's first responders paid a tribute to their comrades killed that day at Hillsborough Volunteer Fire Co. no. 2.

After lowering an American and a Sept. 11 memorial flag to half-staff, the names of all 411 first responders killed in the attacks were read by representatives of Hillsborough's fire companies, Rescue Squad and police department.

After the names were read, the bell was struck again, this time signifying the minute the north tower collapsed.

This year's event was also attended by several local representatives, including Assembly members Jack Ciattarelli and Donna Simon, and Township Committee members Gloria McCauley and Greg Burchette. 

The fire company has marked every Sept. 11 since 2002 with the ceremony, highlighting the pledge carved into a granite slab: "Never forget."