By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor

September 11, 2026, marks 25 years since the terror attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, as well as the hijacked plane that was brought down in Shanksville, Pa. In observance of this somber anniversary, Pennsauken Township, its first responders, and the local community will come together for both the annual flag placement at the town’s 9/11 Memorial and a special noontime ceremony.

“Every September, we gather together to remember those who lost their lives as a result of the terror attacks, as well as honor all first responders who keep our communities safe,” said Pennsauken Mayor Patrick Olivo. “We invite the members of our community to join us for this year’s special ceremonies.”

American Flag Placement At 9/11 Memorial
Each year, American flags are placed throughout Pennsauken’s 9/11 Memorial, located at the corner of Merchantville Ave. and Rt. 130, across the street from the Pennsauken Municipal Complex. Volunteers are needed to help distribute the flags on Thursday, Sept. 10, at 9:00 p.m. and remove them on Friday, Sept. 11, at 9:00 p.m. Those wishing to participate on either day are asked to arrive 15 minutes early. Service organizations as well as those in need of volunteer hours are encouraged to participate.

Located at the corner of Merchantville Ave. and Rt. 130, Pennsauken’s 9/11 Memorial was first dedicated on September 11, 2003, as a tribute to the heroes of 9/11 and the dedicated first responders — police, fire, and EMS — who serve every day to protect residents and businesses in the communities where they work and live. In remembrance of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, a steel beam from the World Trade Center North Tower was dedicated as a permanent part of the memorial.

Remembrance Ceremony
As part of the 25th anniversary commemoration of the terror attacks, the Township will hold a special noontime ceremony on Sept. 11, again at Pennsauken’s 9/11 Memorial. With several local dignitaries in attendance, the guest speaker will be Oscar Phillip Benjamin, a Pennsauken resident and survivor of the attack on the Pentagon. The public is invited to attend.

“This special ceremony will honor the innocent lives lost, remember the brave first responders and service members who answered the call, and reaffirm that we will never forget,” said Mayor Olivo.