+

𝙇𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙣 𝙃𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙧𝙨 9/11 𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙮 𝙖𝙩 𝙒𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖 𝘼𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙖 𝙂𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙈𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙡

By Michael A. Wattkis, Public Information Officer, Linden Public School | mwattkis@lindenps.org

𝐀 𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧
LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOL, NJ -- As the sun set, casting a golden glow through the tall trees surrounding Wanda Anita Green Memorial Park on Mack Place, the mournful wail of bagpipes filled the evening air, signaling the start of the 6:30 p.m. ceremony commemorating the anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The solemn notes of the Central Jersey Pipes & Drums echoed through the park as uniformed police officers, firefighters, and a firefighter color guard stood at attention, creating a reverent and unified presence. The ceremony marked the culmination of a day of remembrance across the city, paying tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the deadliest terrorist attack in U.S. history, including Linden's own Wanda Anita Green.

Earlier in the day, at 8:46 a.m., the exact moment when the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, students across Linden Public Schools, along with patriotic residents in public spaces and their homes, paused in solidarity for a moment of silence to honor the victims of that tragic day. The quiet reflection was a powerful gesture of unity and remembrance. Firehouse No. 1 joined the solemn commemoration at 10:00 a.m. with a special bell-tolling ceremony, a tradition honoring the first responders who perished on September 11. Among those remembered was Wanda Anita Green, a beloved Linden resident and flight attendant on United Airlines Flight 93, who was one of 40 passengers and crew who became heroes that day.

𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚 𝐀𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐚 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧: 𝐀 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝟗𝟑
That morning, Wanda went to work like any other day but soon found herself aboard a hijacked plane bound for destruction. As terrorists took control, Wanda and her fellow passengers courageously fought back, determined to prevent the aircraft from reaching its intended target, believed to be the U.S. Capitol. Their brave actions forced Flight 93 to crash into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, sacrificing their lives to save countless others. Wanda's heroism, along with that of her fellow passengers, remains a lasting symbol of courage in the face of terror.

𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚 𝐀𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐚 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤

The evening ceremony at Wanda Anita Green Memorial Park, situated on Mack Place in the 8th Ward, continued this day-long tribute, with the haunting melody of bagpipes serving as a reminder of the sacrifices and resilience that defined that tragic day 23 years ago.

Around 100 people attended the moving ceremony, which featured tributes from local officials, stirring musical performances, and symbolic gestures of unity and reflection. It opened with a musical prelude from the bagpipe ensemble, setting a reverent tone. The Linden High School ROTC led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by senior Abigail Armstead, who delivered a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem.

𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
Speaker after speaker reflected on the lasting impact of the tragic events, urging the community to never forget the sacrifices made. "September 11, 2001, a day which we should never forget," said Council President Michele Yamakaitis. She recounted the heroic actions of Wanda Green, noting, "Wanda Green was raising her two children right here on South Park Avenue and went to work that day like so many of us do." Yamakaitis also recalled the community's love and support that led to the creation of the memorial park in Green's honor.

Derek Armstead Mayor of Linden emphasized the impact of the attacks and the resilience of the American spirit. "For many of us, it's hard to believe it's been 23 years since this tragic event that took place on September 11, 2001, when nearly 3,000 people perished on that day," Armstead remarked. He highlighted the broader national impact of 9/11, saying, "The events of 9/11 transformed our nation. It transformed our security standards, where today police, fire, and emergency management work together in a way that was previously not done."

Armstead also spoke about the unity that emerged after the attacks: "On that day, for the first time in many years, we as Americans stood united as one. On one of the darkest days in American history, a sense of duty arose instinctively throughout the nation." He concluded his remarks with a message of resilience: "Even though our country was knocked down, we were not knocked out. We continue to rise as a nation."

𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬
Linden Police Chief David Hart reflected on the bravery of first responders. "We also pay tribute to our fallen first responders, 343 New York City firefighters, and as of this week, 370 firefighters who have died from related illnesses," Hart noted, underscoring the ongoing toll that the attacks continue to take on those who served that day.

Linden Fire Chief William Haskio followed with a tribute to the efforts of firefighters, recalling the heroism of both the FDNY and the Linden Fire Department. "The FDNY helped rescue 17,000 people from the World Trade Center in less than an hour and a half," Haskio shared. He praised the bravery of the 343 FDNY members who made the ultimate sacrifice that day, highlighting the Linden Fire Department's role in assisting at Ground Zero.

𝐓𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐥 & 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲
A solemn bell-tolling ceremony followed, honoring the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and civilians who perished on September 11. "Tonight, this service will be performed... in honor of all the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and civilians who were killed on September 11," Haskio explained as the bell rang out across the park.

The ceremony concluded with lighting a candle by Mayor Armstead and Council President Yamakaitis, symbolizing the eternal flame of hope and unity in the face of tragedy. The flickering candlelight served as a reminder of the resilience of the Linden community and the strength that comes from standing together in remembrance.

𝐀 𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲
"This gathering is our effort to show our gratitude to the brave men and women who put their lives at risk every day to protect our freedom," Armstead reflected, summing up the evening's message. "Even though our country was knocked down, we were not knocked out. We continue to rise as a nation."

Linden Police Department Linden Mayor's Youth Commission TAPinto Linden Linden High School ... See MoreSee Less

+7

𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝟗/𝟏𝟏: 𝐀 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

𝙎𝙩𝙪𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨, 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙛𝙛, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙂𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙋𝙖𝙮 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙗𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙇𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙇𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙚𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 11

By Michael A. Wattkis, Public Information Officer, Linden Public Schools | mwattkis@lindenps.org
𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐏𝐔𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐂 𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐋𝐒, 𝐍𝐉 -- At precisely 8:46 a.m. on September 11, 2024, a solemn silence descended upon School No. 8. Standing outside on the school's turfed playground, with heads bowed and miniature American flags clutched tightly in their hands, the elementary students—most of whom were not yet born when the world was forever changed—stood alongside staff, district leaders, and local officials who had gathered to honor the lives lost during the September 11 attacks, 23 years ago. In that still moment, the weight of history was deeply felt as the young faces reflected on a tragedy, they had only heard about but were now part of commemorating.

"It's hard to believe it has been 23 years already," Derek Armstead Mayor of Linden told the gathering. "Many of you weren't even born when it happened, but it's important that we all understand the significance of this day because it changed the world forever."

Community-wide Reflection

Mayor Armstead was joined by Superintendent Atiya Y. Perkins, School No. 8 Principal Michelle Rodriguez, teachers, staff, and school board member Lymari Cintron as similar moments of reflection unfolded across other schools in the district, in public spaces, and even in homes. The Linden community came together in solidarity to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the deadliest terrorist attack in U.S. history.

Standing at the podium alongside a group of students dressed in red, white, and blue, Superintendent Perkins echoed the mayor's sentiments as she addressed the patriotic crowd. "This is a very special day," she said. "We stand here today because, as citizens of the United States, we stand together." Perkins also paid tribute to the bravery of firefighters, police officers, and others who rushed to help after the attacks.
"We say job well done to all those who sacrificed their lives," she reminded the students.

The commemorative events at School No. 8 began with teachers, many also dressed patriotically, distributing miniature American flags as they filed orderly into the play area -- symbolizing the resilience and unity of the American people.

In hushed silence, School Social Worker Ann-Marie Spricigo reminded them of the day's importance.

"Patriot Day 2024, also referred to as 9/11, is a day dedicated to remembering and paying tribute to the 2,977 people killed and the numerous others who were injured during the terrorist attacks," Rodriguez said. "We honor all families, EMTs, police officers, firefighters, businesses, volunteers, and the U.S. military who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve."

ᴍᴀʏᴏʀ'ꜱ ᴍᴇꜱꜱᴀɢᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴜɴɪᴛʏ

Mayor Armstead, a passionate advocate for remembrance, spoke about the lasting impact of September 11 on the nation and the world.

"September 11 was not just an attack on buildings, but an attack on the very values we hold dear as Americans," Armstead said. "They struck at symbols of our strength—the Twin Towers and the Pentagon—but what they couldn't destroy was our spirit and our unity as a people."

Armstead urged the students to live with kindness, work hard, and be proud of their country, reminding them, "They knocked us down, but we got right back up. We stood united, and that is something no force of evil can take from us."

Mayor's Tribute at Fire Station No. 1

Later in the morning, Mayor Armstead visited Fire Station No. 1 to join first responders in a moving 10-bell tolling ceremony. The ringing of the bells echoed throughout the city, paying tribute to the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and civilians who perished in the line of duty on 9/11.

America the Beautiful

With Ray Charles' soulful rendition of "America the Beautiful" playing over the sound system, students, smiling and waving their flags, returned to the school building. The powerful melody set the tone for a day filled with reflection as they returned to their classrooms to engage in patriotic activities, each note a reminder of unity, pride, and remembrance.

Students in grades 3-5 reviewed an article from Kids NatGeo about the lasting impact of 9/11, including the formation of the Department of Homeland Security and the sense of national unity that followed the attacks. Younger students participated in creative projects, from making 9/11 crowns to writing essays on "Who is a Hero." All students listened to a YouTube read-aloud of Never Forget 9/11: Love Always Wins by Haskiri Velazquez, reinforcing themes of love and resilience.

Honoring Linden's Hero: Wanda Anita Green

The bells at Fire Station No. 1 tolled as a poignant reminder of the bravery displayed by ordinary citizens like Wanda Anita Green, whose heroism continues to resonate in the Linden community. Green, a Linden native and flight attendant aboard United Airlines Flight 93, was among the courageous passengers who fought back against the hijackers that morning. While two planes struck the World Trade Center and another hit the Pentagon, it's believed Flight 93 was headed for the U.S. Capitol. Thanks to the brave resistance of Green and her fellow passengers, the plane crashed in a Pennsylvania field, preventing further devastation.

At 49, Green was a devoted mother of two and an active community member. Her courageous actions on that fateful day remain a powerful testament to her strength and selflessness.
"Wanda Green's heroism is a source of pride and inspiration for Linden," Mayor Armstead said. "Her memory lives on through her children, Joe and Jennifer, and her legacy is one of strength and service."

Evening Ceremony at Wanda Anita Green Memorial Park

The day's commemorations will culminate with a special ceremony at 6:30 p.m. at the Wanda Anita Green Memorial Park on Mack Place in Linden, a site dedicated to her bravery. Mayor Armstead, Council President Michelle Yamakaitis, and other community leaders will gather to pay tribute to Green and all those who lost their lives on 9/11.

Green, who would have turned 72 this year, is remembered for her heroism and as a trailblazer, one of the first African American flight attendants at United Airlines, and a pillar of her community. ... See MoreSee Less