In June, the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners declared that Monday, September 11, 2023 will be a County holiday to honor the victims, first responders, volunteers and all who were affected by the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. While school is in session, county offices are closed, and no non-essential services will be provided. Businesses are not required to close, and they are not expected to give employees paid time off.
147 Monmouth County residents died on September 11th, the highest number of victims from New Jersey.
“We need to acknowledge a day of rest and remembrance so that everyone is given the opportunity to observe 9/11, whether by attending a ceremony, visiting a local memorial, thanking a first responder or talking to our children about what happened on 9/11,” said Director Arnone.
In a joint resolution that was approved December 18, 2001, Congress designated September 11 of each year as “Patriot Day,” and a “National Day of Service.” Volunteer and service opportunities are coordinated by the Corporation for National and Community Service. Despite renewed efforts to make 9/11 a Federal Holiday, among financial concerns there are concerns that it would become just another day off for workers.
“We have a lot of holidays and days of remembrance, but there is one significant day that has not been given enough significance, and that is 9/11,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “Last year, we called on the federal government and state government to declare 9/11 as a holiday, but unfortunately that did not happen. So, Monmouth County is declaring September 11th, 2023 as a County holiday.”
The Borough of Shrewsbury has also followed suit, declaring 9/11 a local holiday. Two Shrewsbury residents perished in the attacks.
“We take great pride in being the first municipality in Monmouth County to formally observe September 11 as a designated holiday,” Mayor Erik Anderson said. “We urge all our citizens to take a moment to reflect upon the lives lost on the that fateful day and show our deepest appreciation for the selfless sacrifices made by our brave first responders.”
