Morris Plains Hosts 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony Featuring Survivor Vincent "Vinny" Borst

Local event commemorates the 22nd anniversary of 9/11, inviting a survivor to share his harrowing escape from the World Trade Center.

Morris Plains will host a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, featuring guest speaker Vincent "Vinny" Borst, a survivor who escaped the North Tower on that fateful day. The ceremony aims not only to honor the victims but also to recognize the survivors and the enduring impact the event has had on their lives.

The Who and What

Vincent "Vinny" Borst, an MTA project manager who was working on the 82nd floor of the North Tower at the time of the attacks, will be the guest speaker. "It's something that lives with me, good or bad. But it's something I never forget," Borst told CBS2's Dick Brennan in a previous interview. The ceremony is open to the public and aims to pay tribute to all those affected by the events of September 11, 2001.

The Why and How

The Remembrance Ceremony seeks to keep the memories and lessons of 9/11 alive, particularly as we cross the 22nd anniversary. Borst, who can "close [his] eyes and recite that entire day," vividly recalls the difficulties he faced as he descended 82 floors amidst flames and debris. His testimony provides a first-hand account of the courage and resilience demonstrated that day.

The When and Where

The event is scheduled to take place in Morris Plains, although the exact date and venue are yet to be announced. Borst will recount the moments following the impact of the planes, his struggle to escape the tower, and his feelings of grief and loss 21 years later.

The Larger Context

While Borst was one of the fortunate survivors, the attacks claimed the lives of 343 members of the FDNY, 23 NYPD police officers, and 37 members of the Port Authority Police. "We mourned, and we swore that we would never forget, whether it was here, or in Pennsylvania, or in D.C. An attack like that on our soil, and our innocent people dying. It's heartbreaking," said Borst.

"Never Forget"

The Remembrance Ceremony serves as an enduring testament to the community's commitment to never forget the victims, survivors, and heroes of 9/11. As Borst himself puts it, "Never forget." Residents are encouraged to attend the ceremony to honor those we've lost and listen to a survivor's tale that stands as a stark reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

For more information about the upcoming ceremony, residents are advised to check local listings and community bulletins.