Memories and a chance to recognize first responders in the Hackettstown area were part of a special event held at the House of the Good Shepherd in Hackettstown on Sept. 7 as it remembered 9/11.

The House and its residents are committed to “Never Forget” – and hosted a “Remembrance Ceremony” at its retirement community with several speakers who were directly or indirectly impacted by the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001.

The ceremony also recognized the efforts of the first responders in the region, including the Hackettstown police department, and others, many of whom are volunteers who selflessly give of their time to help others throughout the year. 

Featured speakers included David Sullivan, Chair of the Board of Trustees at The House, Hackettstown Mayor Jerry DiMaio (pictured below), and Stephanie Rudloff, R.N., Director of Nursing at The House. Many others also spoke about their remembrances.

“All the personal stories from our staff, residents, first responders and special guests gave us a solemn reminder of the importance of this event,” said Sue Lanza, CEO of The House. 

American Legion Post 164 presented the colors and Parker Greenough, Recreation and Nursing Assistant at The House, led the crowd with the singing of the National Anthem.

Lanza welcomed the audience and later led a moment of silence.  

In the days leading up to the event employees of The House placed 2,977 American flags on the lawn by the lower entrance signifying every person that was lost on 9/11.

Gina Arnone, Human Resources Generalist at The House, summarized the event best when she said, “It was so inspiring to see the staff, residents and community come together to mark this special occasion with the flags for each life lost.”