Somers volunteers, boot drive and ongoing health concerns recalled at 25th‑anniversary ceremony

George Waller, introduced as assistant chief of the Somers Fire Department, described the town's response after Sept. 11, 2001: the firehouse opened, residents donated equipment and clothing, and a "boot drive" and collections were sent to New York City to help responders on the pile. "The chief of the fire department took on sending volunteer firemen down to New York City to help," Waller said, recalling the community effort.

Speakers including Sergeant David Burpee and Congressman Michael Lawler also noted that 25 years later first responders continue to suffer and that some have died from illnesses related to their response. Lawler said "we are still losing first responders to 9/11 related illnesses," underscoring calls for continuing support and healthcare access for responders and recovery workers.