May We Never Forget

Yesterday, I jumped on the 1 Train and headed downtown, all the way to Ground Zero, the site of the World Trade Center. Even six years later, it is still a shock to see the twin towers missing, massive and impressive structures that distinctly punctuated the Manhattan skyline for so long. The last time I visited Ground Zero was probably 3 years ago and at that time, I remember it being a very eerie experience. There was a grim and somber air about the area that commanded silence, even from the most fidgety, unruly and noisy of children. Even without specific knowledge about what had happened here, they still could sense the heaviness of the meaning of this now empty space.

Now, it stills brings tears to your eyes just to stand there and be reminded of the world-altering tragedy that occurred on that site, but there is more of a sense of renewal and rebuilding than there was before. It looks very much like a typical construction zone, preparing for the development of the new Freedom Tower.

Right across the street is the FDNY's Ten House, the home of both FDNY Ladder Company 10 and FDNY Engine Company 10. This firehouse was only mere blocks away from the WTC and was not only heavily damaged during the September 11 attacks, but the company also lost six firefighters.

Now Ten House is back to a functioning facility, but it's also been opened up to the public and firefighters are on hand to answer questions, talk about the memorial wall that's built inside, take pictures, and of course, sell FDNY calendars. In a glass case on the wall, there is a green and white "Liberty St" street sign, its metal twisted and mangled from the impact of the events of September 11, 2001.

Around the corner, the FDNY Memorial Wall reminds us of all 343 firefighters who died trying to save and protect New Yorkers on September 11. A huge bronze bas relief, it is inscribed with the words "Dedicated to those who fell and to those who carry on. May we never forget." At the bottom of the wall, there were flowers and momentos strewn across the sidewalk, in memory of those who made the supreme sacrifice.

I overheard a mother reading some of the incription to her young son, explaining what it all meant and it made me sad to think that such young, innocent and smiling children even need to know what evil exists in the world. Thank goodness for sunglasses -- my tears remained my own.