To the Citizens of Hoboken:

On Tuesday, September 11, 2001 the City of Hoboken and its residents were among the millions of Americans who were deeply affected by the evil terrorist attack in New York City. As Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Hoboken, please be assured that the community spirit of Hoboken is outstanding.

The emergency management system went into action immediately, to ensure that every assistance was given to those who were returning from New York City and to ensure the safety of our citizens during the security alert. We must be grateful and heartened by the quick and orderly response of the Hoboken Police Department under the command of Chief Carmen La Bruno, the Hoboken Fire Department under the command of Chief John Cassesa, the emergency medical services coordinated by our Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corps under the command of Thomas Molta, the emergency assistance from medical professionals from St. Mary Hospital (Bon Secours), the personal assistance received from Joel Mestre and Health Officer Frank Sasso, the resources provided by the Board of Education, the Mayor's Office, Michael Estevez, our City Directors and municipal workforce who worked tirelessly throughout the effort, and the local businesses who donated food, water and other supplies into the early morning hours of the following day.

The religious clergy of Hoboken gave spiritual comfort and guidance to all who were in need. The many parishes and congregations of Hoboken continue to raise funds and offer comfort to families and friends of victims. Former OEM Coordinator George Crimmins along with Timothy Calligy helped us with their vast experience in emergency management. The community organizations that quickly came to aid, comfort and provide, are many. Hundreds of citizens volunteered in so many selfless deeds.

Hoboken residents have been remarkable in their response to the needs of the relief workers and in their donations to help fund victims and their families. They donated blood in local hospitals for the victims and helped in loading trucks, bringing needed supplies to the relief workers in New York City. The Anthony Russo Civic Association, through its effort, has been designated an official Red Cross site for donations of supplies to the relief workers, and its members continue to work into the early hours to bring needed supplies into Ground Zero.

I urge you to continue to contact your places of worship and community organizations in providing funds for victims' families and necessities for the brave and tireless relief workers in New York City. Please be assured that your municipal officials and Police, Fire and EMS workers are prepared to act on behalf of all its citizens.

Our country will persevere in these times, and we will let the world know that we are a people of compassion and pride in our ideals. God Bless America!

James Fitzsimmons, Coordinator

Office of Emergency Management