GALLERY: Lanoka Harbor Fire Department Breaks Ground On 9/11 Memorial

The continues to construct its 9/11 memorial.

The memorial, which will incorporate a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, will be completed just in time for the fire department's unveiling ceremony on the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

“We hope it will be a place of reflection so we don’t forget,” said Jerry Pepin, President of the fire department.

The memorial will have two 6-foot-tall black granite towers connected by the 4-foot steel beam. An American flag will be draped over the beam. There will also be a waterfall flowing over another piece of granite with the number 343 engraved, the number of New York City firefighters who lost their lives on that tragic day.

A paver walkway will be laid in front of the memorial with two benches. Residents can purchase pavers for the walkway with a message or dedication engraved on the stone.

The fire department is enlisting the help of local businesses and residents, as they want this memorial to be community driven, Pepin said.

The memorial will cost from $5,000 to $7,000 dollars. The fire company is continuing to fundraise for the project and is asking for community support in the form of money, time, trades or skills.

On Saturday, Aug. 13, three local bussinessman volunteered their time. Steve Rizzo of Smokey's Chimney Sweep, Dan Inglis of Lanoka Electric, and Ricky Cacoilo of AJR Construction assisted in the construction of the memorial.

"I'm here just to give back. For the people who lost their lives and memorialize them," Inglis said.

Those interested in purchasing a paver, donating funds, or helping with the memorial can call the firehouse at 609-693-4998.