Westchester County commemorated the 24th anniversary of the conclusion of rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero with the placement of its annual flower spray at The Rising, the County’s 9/11 First Responders Memorial located at
the Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla.
The annual observance honors the courage and sacrifice of the first responders, recovery workers and volunteers who
worked tirelessly at the World Trade Center site in the days and months following the September 11 terrorist attacks. This
year’s remembrance comes at a particularly emotional time following the recent passing of Harrison Firefighter Kenneth J.
Fusco, who died from 9/11-related illnesses connected to his work at Ground Zero after the attacks.
Firefighter Fusco served with the Harrison Fire Department for 45 years and participated in rescue and recovery operations
at the World Trade Center site following the September 11 attacks. His passing serves as another painful reminder that
the impacts of 9/11 continue to affect first responders and their families more than two decades later.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “As we mark the 24th anniversary of the end of rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero, we remember the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of the first responders and recovery during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history. This year’s remembrance carries even deeper meaning as we honor the life and service of Harrison Firefighter Kenneth J. Fusco, whose passing reminds us that the effects of 9/11 are still being felt by so many families and communities across our region. We will continue to honor those we lost, support those still suffering from 9/11-related illnesses and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.”
The Rising Memorial was dedicated in 2006 and stands as Westchester County’s permanent tribute to the County
residents lost on September 11 and the first responders who continue to suffer from illnesses connected to their service at
Ground Zero.
The placement of the annual flower spray serves as both a remembrance and a reflection on the continuing impact of
9/11 on first responders, recovery workers and their families. Westchester County remains committed to honoring their service and advocating for continued support for those affected by 9/11-related illnesses.
