New York City commemorated the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks with a solemn yet uplifting ceremony held at the New York City Police Department booth in Times Square. The event, which took place on the anniversary date, brought together remembrance of one of the city's darkest moments with a message of humanitarian service, courage, and hope for the future. The location was chosen for its symbolic significance: a space dedicated to public safety and the ongoing service of the NYPD in the heart of one of the world's busiest public areas.
Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, served as Master of Ceremonies, welcoming Scientology Volunteer Ministers, religious and community leaders, police officers, rescue workers, government representatives, and other guests. In his opening remarks, Parrino emphasized that the commemoration was intended not only to remember the tragedy but also to recognize the courage, service, and humanitarian commitment that emerged in its aftermath. Twenty-five years ago, NYPD officers were among the first to respond, running toward danger to protect others, and their response became an enduring example of bravery and public service. The NYPD continues to play a vital role in protecting New Yorkers and the millions of visitors each year.
The event was deliberately linked to World Humanitarian Day, creating a bridge between remembrance and hope. Rather than looking only backward, the commemoration reflected on how people can respond to suffering by serving others, strengthening communities, and preparing for a better future. 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 ceremony 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, creating one of the most moving moments of the gathering.
Several individuals representing the broader community of public servants and rescue and support workers 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. The event also featured a special recognition from Congressman Adriano Espaillat of New York's 13th Congressional District, 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 another important link between the tragedy and the humanitarian message. Following the attacks, approximately 800 Volunteer Ministers came to Ground Zero to assist. Since then, according to the event presentation, 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 story reflects the central message of the commemoration: tragedy must be remembered, but it does not have to define the future.
September 11 remains a profound reminder of the devastating human cost of violence and hatred. But the response of first responders, volunteers, and ordinary citizens also revealed something equally powerful—the capacity of human beings to act with courage, compassion, and solidarity when others are in need. By bringing the remembrance of 9/11 together with World Humanitarian Day, the organizers sought to honor those who were lost while recognizing the responsibility of those who remain: to continue serving, helping others, and building stronger communities. The setting in Times Square reinforced that message. Twenty-five years after New York faced an unprecedented tragedy, the city continues to live, work, and serve—and the commitment to helping others remains one of the most meaningful ways to honor those who were lost.
As the commemoration 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.
