By Mark Hallum
A new plaque commemorating the victims of 9/11 in Bayside got a new look Saturday.
Bayside resident Don Norton organized the effort to recognize the sacrifice of first responders and city employees and unveiled the metal monument with state Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) and over 100 supporters of the effort.
The placard reads “All gave some, some gave all,” with badges for FDNY, NYPD, Port Authority Police, FDNY Paramedics, the city Department of Sanitation and the New York State courts.
“Sixteen years ago we, unfortunately, had to look tragedy in the eye as our city came under attack,” Avella said. “On that day, we saw the lengths that our first responders would go to in order to protect us. I am extremely proud to be able to honor those heroes with the dedication of this small token of my enormous gratitude.”
According to Norton, he and Avella were joined by Assemblyman Edward Braunstein (D-Bayside) along with members of FDNY, NYPD and the American Legion in nearby Auburndale.
The plaque at 204th Street between 33rd and 32nd Avenue was unveiled by the children of a firefighter who died on 9/11.
The memorial previously at the site had become old and faded, according to Norton.
“It was made of glass and after I think five years, it just got crumby looking,” Norton said. Residents in the area had chipped in to have the glass cut for it.
The money for the new plaque came from Avella’s campaign funds for state Senate.
Lights were installed to keep the memorial illuminated at night.
“I’ve never seen a plaque like it. It’s that nice,” Norton said. “It’s just beautiful.”
The plaque cost Norton $1,023, and Avella contributed $1,000.
Reach reporter Mark Hallum by e-mail at mhall
