Eleven years ago today, hundreds of Long Islanders came to Point Lookout Beach in the wake of the terrorist attacks and looked to the west where the majestic Twin Towers once stood.
Since that date, Hempstead Town has invited residents back to the seaside location for an annual 9/11 Memorial Service.
At the 11th anniversary this year, an interactive program helped facilitate a connection between the victims of September 11th and those attending the ceremony.
By writing the names of victims and other appropriate messages on a "Heroes of 9/11 Panorama," neighbors helped keep alive the legacy of love created by those who perished at Ground Zero.
Among those who addressed the crowd was Rockville Centre resident Russ Siller. Siller recalled memories of his brother, FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller.
According to Newsday:
Siller, 34, who grew up in Rockville Centre, had finished his shift with Squad 1 in Brooklyn and was headed home to Staten Island to play golf with Russ and other brothers. On the way he heard of the attacks and called his wife to say he'd be late for golf.
Driving his personal vehicle he was unable to go through the closed Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel. He stopped at the tunnel entrance, strapped on his gear and ran through the tunnel toward the scene.He is believed to have died in the South Tower.
Submit your photos of today's ceremony above.
To the SIller family, peace, prayers and best wishes.