NEW YORK (WCBS 880) -- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey honored the sacrifices made by its first responders and employees before, during and after 9/11 with the dedication of a memorial garden Monday.
The garden is on Liberty Park, an area of the World Trade Center campus that focuses on remembrance and reflection — including the 9/11 Memorial Plaza and the future St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine.
Countless lives were saved by quick-moving Port Authority workers on 9/11, who were the first at the scene, officials said.
On the day of the attacks, 84 Port Authority employees died, including 37 Port Authority police officers — the largest loss suffered by a police department in U.S. law enforcement history, officials said.
Thirteen civilian members of Port Authority’s World Trade Department were also recognized as first responder deaths by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The memorial is dedicated to employees who volunteered in the recovery and have died from 9/11-related illness.
“Our police officers, first responders, rescue workers and staff who rushed into harm’s way risked their lives so that others would survive. That they put others before themselves is a testament to the values we share -- not just as an agency, but as Americans,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole.
A plaque at the garden reads:
“On the 20th anniversary of September 11, we dedicate this memorial garden in remembrance of the heroic first responders and rescue and recovery workers of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
“May this Garden serve to remind us of those who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001, as well as those whose selfless action during the recovery has led to injury, illness and death long after that tragic day.
“We will always honor their memory and vow that we will never forget their sacrifice.”
Port Authority officials, police officers and family members spoke at the memorial Monday, and a procession by the department’s Pipes and Drums band followed.