On Thursday, September 11, 2025, the City of Trenton observed the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks with a Remembrance Ceremony, followed by the annual 9.11-mile Run & Bike event.
The ceremony, held at Trenton Fire Department Headquarters, began at 8:30 AM, with moments of silence observed at 8:46 AM, 9:01 AM, and 9:03 AM to mark the times the planes struck the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon. A solemn ringing of the bell took place at each moment, symbolizing reflection and remembrance.
Speakers included Mayor W. Reed Gusciora, City Council President Yazminelly Gonzalez, North Ward Councilwoman Jennifer Williams, Fire Director Kenneth Douglas, Police Director Steve Wilson, and EMS Director Grady Griffin. Each offered remarks honoring the victims of 9/11 and recognizing the bravery of first responders.
“This is a solemn day where we remember the lives lost and the families affected. We honor the public safety officers, the firefighters, police, and EMTs, who went into all that danger to try and save lives,” said Mayor Gusciora at the ceremony. “They put the public’s lives before their own. Everyone should remember this day as a moment when America stood united.”
Fire Director Kenneth Douglas shared a personal reflection during the ceremony, recalling his deployment to New York for the rescue and recovery efforts on 9/11. He spoke about the unimaginable impact of that day, including the loss of the Twin Towers, the more than 3,000 lives lost, and the courage of the first responders who answered the call.
Following the ceremony, participants took part in the 9.11-mile run and bike course, stopping at all seven firehouses across the city.
Photos and event highlights can be viewed on the City of Trenton Facebook page. www.facebook.com/cityoftrentonnj