The State of Connecticut honored its residents who were lost during the 09/11/01 terrorist attacks with a ceremony at Sherwood Island State Park Thursday evening. The park is home to the State’s 9/11 memorial - located at the point where many residents gather nearly 20 years ago to watch as smoke could be seen lifting from lower Manhattan. Tonight, flowers and community members filled the point - which was glossed over in orange hues as a bright sunset brought the dreary day to a vivid end.

Family members, friends, local first responders, and community leaders took part in the public remembrance under the cover of the pavilion prior to walking along the coastline to the memorial space. Speakers included families and friends of those lost, and the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Connecticut. While at the memorial site, flowers were left on the names of those being remembered today, while many took a moment to reflect on the two decades since the attacks. Connecticut’s United Ride will begin at Sherwood Island State Park this Saturday prior to making its way through the region as an annual remembrance of 9/11.

All photos by Jerri Graham Photography