9/11 Fund Donates To Police Union In Memory Of Ramsey Victim

RAMSEY, NJ —Gregory Wachtler worked at the World Trade Center. He was one of the nearly 3,000 people to died in the 9/11 attacks.

But out of Wachtler's tragic death, good would come.

Shortly after the attack, Wachtler's parents, Paul and Nassima, contacted the Ramsey Police Department stating they could not find their son. After Ramsey police officers investigated, they realized Wachtler was killed in the attack.

"Members of the Ramsey Police Department took the loss of life that day, particularly our Ramsey residents, very personally," said Ramsey Police Chief Bryan Gurney.

But the tragedy forged a friendship between Wachtler's parents and Ramsey police officers.

Over the years, the friendship grew stronger. However, tragedy struck again earlier this year when Paul Wachtler became ill and died. Ramsey officers responded to Wachtler's home to help him while he was sick.

"Paul's sickness and death reminded many officers of the bond we have with the Wachtler family," Gurney said.

The company Wachtler worked for created the Fred Alger Management Charity Fund in memory of the 35 colleagues who died during the 9/11 attack.

Nassima Wachtler asked the fund's organizers to donate $4,500 to the Ramsey PBA Local 155 in her son and husband's names.

"From the initial interaction we had with the Wachtlers and through Greg and Paul's deaths, the Ramsey Police Department established a long-lasting friendship with the Wachtler family," Gurney said. "We remember Greg at every 9/11 memorial service. We will remember our friend, Paul for his happy and friendly spirit. We are also dedicated to Nassima Wachtler and will do anything we can to assist her during this difficult time. This generous donation in the name of both Greg and Paul will most assuredly assist Ramsey police officers, their families, and many others."

Other police officials agreed.

"We were all sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Wachtler," said Michael Canonico, Ramsey PBA president. "The donation will have a direct impact on our families and the other charities that we support."

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com