Residents, firefighters, and first responders gathered at Fireman’s Triangle in Walden last Monday evening in remembrance of 9/11, commemorating the lives lost and the first responders who provided critical care during and after the attacks.

From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., members of the Walden Fire District recounted their experiences on 9/11, read poems, and recited anthems with residents.

“Being here is an unbelievable reminder of the role that the village of Walden, our DPW staff, and volunteers played as first responders on 9/11. And that’s why this ceremony is so special, not just to all of us here but for all those from Orange County,” said Assemblyman Brian Maher.

The memorial also featured a list of local first responders who took action on 9/11, both alive and passed, including responders who passed years later.

“As fire services mourned the loss of 343 members of the FDNY, so did the New York City Police Department and Port Authority, who lost 61 members. We also mourn the loss of other first responders and civilians who died that day, 43 from Orange County. It was clear to all of that, collectively, we will promise to never forget,” said Charles McNeely, 1st Assistant Chief of the Walden Fire Department.

The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, followed by members of the fire district hanging up the Wreath of Remembrance over Fireman’s Triangle’s plaque.

“We the firefighters appreciate everybody that still keeps this memory alive, especially in New York. Everybody knows somebody who died that day: a firefighter, police, somebody who worked at one of the offices there. So we keep it alive,” said Father Tom Colucci, pastor of Most Precious Blood Parish and firefighter who served on 9/11.