PROVIDENCE, RI- Governor Gina M. Raimondo was joined by members of the General Assembly and other state officials this morning to unveil a plaque listing the names of Rhode Islanders lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The commemoration ceremony took place adjacent to the 9/11 memorial – commissioned by Governor Lincoln Almond – at the Rhode Island State House. Sponsored by Rep. Gregory J. Costantino (D – Dist. 44, Lincoln, Smithfield, Johnston) and Sen. Stephen R. Archambault (D – Dist. 22, Smithfield, North Providence, Johnston), the General Assembly passed legislation in 2018 directing the Department of Administration to add the names of Rhode Island residents who were killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 to the memorial.
"For nearly two decades, the 9/11 memorial has served as an important, sobering reminder to all who visit the State House that Rhode Island suffered greatly on September 11. Now, with the names of those we lost forever engraved on its face, we can ensure that future generations will never forget the personal cost of that day. It is our honor and our duty to ensure that the memories of the Rhode Islanders we lost in the attacks live on," said Governor Gina M. Raimondo.
"September 11th is a somber day for Americans as we reflect on our values and remember the lives that were lost and the true bravery that was exhibited in the aftermath of this devastating attack. This memorial will be a testament to the innocent lives that fell, the selflessness that was displayed, and the resiliency and strength of our great country," said Representative Samuel A. Azzinaro, Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs (D-Dist. 37, Westerly).
"Today we permanently memorialize the nine individual Rhode Islanders who perished on September 11, recognizing that each had a unique story, contributed to their families and their communities, and left behind loved ones who will always feel that devastating loss. This monument with their names is a testament to tell all subsequent generations of Rhode Islanders of the very real human toll taken by extremism and terrorism, as well as the incredible response of our nation: unity. It's my hope that this monument will always remind us that America is strongest and closest to its ideals when its people are united and focused on what we share, rather than on our differences," said Senator Harold Metts, Senate President Pro Tempore (D-District 6, Providence).
The names of those lost to Rhode Island on 9/11 are as follows:
David Lawrence Angell Carol Marie Bouchard Mark Lawrence Charette James Edward Hayden Amy Nicole Jarret Kathryn L. Laborie Shawn M. Nassaney Renee Tetreault Newell Jessica Leigh Sachs
The ceremony also honored the members of law enforcement, first responders, military and others who lost their lives in the War on Terror.