New York City marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks with a commemoration in Times Square that balanced solemn remembrance with a message of humanitarian service and hope. The event, held at the New York City Police Department booth, brought together police officers, rescue workers, religious leaders, and community members to honor the victims, survivors, and first responders of 9/11.
The location was chosen for its significance: a space dedicated to public safety in one of the world's busiest public areas. The NYPD's response to the attacks, where officers ran toward danger to protect others, has become an enduring example of courage and service. The department continues to play a vital role in protecting New Yorkers and millions of visitors each year.
Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, served as Master of Ceremonies, welcoming attendees and emphasizing that the commemoration was not only to remember the tragedy but also to recognize the courage and humanitarian commitment that emerged in its aftermath. The event was intentionally tied to World Humanitarian Day, bridging remembrance and hope by reflecting on how people can respond to suffering by serving others and strengthening communities.
Among the participants was Captain Bellingeri of the NYPD, Patrol Borough Manhattan South, Midtown South Precinct, along with local Times Square operations and units. The commemoration also honored Jeff Samerson, a retired FDNY Emergency Medical Technician who dedicated 27 years to serving New York City and worked as a rescue worker following 9/11. Samerson performed the U.S. National Anthem, providing a moving moment for those gathered.
Several other public servants were recognized, including Michael Robinson, Special Officer with the Department of Homeless Services; Michelle J. Alleyne, CUNY Hostos/BMCC Special Officer with the Temporary Morgue Emergency Assistant Unit; Edwinna Herrera, Department of Transportation; and Marilyn Miller, New York City Police Department. A special recognition from Congressman Adriano Espaillat of New York's 13th Congressional District was presented by his Government and Community Relations Director, Shana Marks, honoring the Volunteer Ministers and their program developed by humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard for their service following 9/11.
The Scientology Volunteer Ministers' experience provided a link between the tragedy and the humanitarian message. Following the attacks, approximately 800 Volunteer Ministers came to Ground Zero to assist. Since then, the organization has grown to more than 250,000 trained volunteers, prepared to assist people in times of need, whether facing natural or man-made disasters. Its humanitarian educational initiatives have been carried out internationally in more than 190 countries.
The commemoration underscored that while September 11 remains a profound reminder of the devastating human cost of violence and hatred, the response of first responders, volunteers, and ordinary citizens revealed the capacity for courage, compassion, and solidarity. By bringing remembrance together with World Humanitarian Day, organizers sought to honor those lost while recognizing the responsibility of those who remain: to continue serving, helping others, and building stronger communities.
As the event concluded, participants were reminded: "We remember those we lost. We honor those who served. And we continue the work of helping others." Twenty-five years later, the message remains clear: we cannot change what happened on September 11, 2001—but we can choose what we do with its memory.
