Atlantic City Marks September 11 with Community Remembrance

Hundreds of residents, families, and first responders gathered this morning at the Saracini-O’Neill 9/11 Memorial on Jackson Avenue and the Boardwalk for an hour-and-a-half ceremony honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Standing together in solidarity, the Atlantic City Police Department (ACPD) and Atlantic City Fire Department (ACFD) joined city and county officials, Mayor Marty Small Sr., members of the Ventnor Police and Fire Departments, and the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department. The gathering provided a time of reflection and unity, recognizing both the victims and the first responders who rushed toward danger that day.

The ceremony included songs, poems, and art. A 40-ton patriotic sand sculpture by artist John Gowdy and a massive American flag raised by ACFD ladder trucks framed the memorial. Music from the Sandpipers Pipes & Drums of Atlantic County added to the solemn atmosphere, while an Honor Guard of ACPD and ACFD members presented the colors.

Among those honored were Angel and Camille Morales, retired NYPD officers who responded to Ground Zero on September 11 and now live in Atlantic City. Their presence underscored the continuing connection between the city and the heroism displayed 24 years ago.

Mayor Small addressed the crowd, reflecting on resilience, healing, and the importance of remembrance. ACPD Chief James Sarkos and ACFD Chief Scott Evans spoke of the sacrifices made and the duty to support one another in service and in community.

Atlantic City’s annual September 11 memorial reaffirms the city’s commitment to never forget—honoring the past while strengthening the bonds of community that carry forward.

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