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A Message from the District Attorney...
Dear Friends and Neighbors:
Today, we honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost and remember the sacrifices made 25 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001. And tonight, our Jewish neighbors welcome Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a time for reflection, renewal, and hope.
While these observances carry different meanings, both remind us of the importance of coming together as a community, caring for one another, and standing united in the face of adversity.
Each and every one of us remembers exactly where we were when we learned that terrorists had hijacked four planes and unleashed devastating attacks that forever changed our state and country.
I was on my way to work at the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office, where I was an Assistant District Attorney, when I heard on the radio that a plane had crashed into one of the World Trade Center towers.
Like many, I initially thought it was an accident or perhaps a terrible misunderstanding.
But when I arrived at the office, I turned on the television and watched in horror as the second plane struck the South Tower. Moments later, both towers collapsed.
In that shattering moment, I knew our nation was under attack.
I spent the rest of the day at home, watching the news, and trying to make sense of what was happening while holding my young daughters and husband close. When I returned to work, I learned that some of my colleagues were among the many who had lost loved ones.
Twenty-five years later, the impact of that tragic day and the profound loss suffered by so many remains with me.
Together, we honor the lives lost on 9/11 and those who have since perished from 9/11-related illnesses. We remember the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice, the families who have lived with unimaginable grief, and the countless acts of courage and selflessness that emerged in the dark days that followed.
Most importantly, we uphold our solemn promise to Never Forget.
As we reflect on the past, Rosh Hashanah reminds us to embrace the year ahead with renewed faith and a sense of promise.
This is a sacred time of reflection, gratitude, and togetherness, and I want our Jewish community to know that we are here, we are listening, and we are committed to keeping you safe.
To everyone celebrating Rosh Hashanah, I wish you and your loved ones a Shana Tova – a happy, healthy, and peaceful New Year.
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