Somers marks 25th anniversary of 9/11 with wreath-laying, music and interfaith remembrances

Doris James Smith, Somers' town historian, opened a 25th‑anniversary remembrance at Bailey Park on Sept. 11, calling the event a time to "remember the lives lost, honor the bravery of first responders, and reflect on the resilience of our communities." The ceremony included prayers, musical tributes, readings from family members and officials, and a plan to lay wreaths at the town memorial.

Sergeant David Burpee of the Somers Police Department delivered a lengthy reflection on the national impact of the attacks, reminded attendees of the sacrifices by police, firefighters and emergency medical personnel, and urged the town to preserve the memory of victims and the democratic values the attackers sought to strike. "We owe those who chose to place themselves in harm's way," Burpee said. The program included a performance of the national anthem and later a rendition of "God Bless America."