
Westborough Fire Chief Patrick Purcell says a few words during the town’s annual observance of 9/11 at the memorial on Milk Street. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
WESTBOROUGH – On Wednesday, Sept. 11, police and fire personnel gathered to observe the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks at New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania.
The ceremony was held at the 9/11 memorial on the fire station grounds at Milk Street.
Fire Chief Patrick Purcell asked attendees to put aside the challenges of what was happening around them for one minute, to honor those who died in these attacks.

The 9/11 memorial on the grounds of the fire station on Milk Street. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Among the fatalities – Westborough residents Robin Kaplan and Linda George. They were among 17 employees of TJ Maxx who were on board American Airlines Flight 11 when it was highjacked, then smashed into one of the Twin Towers in New York City.
As part of his remarks, Purcell quoted Sen. Ted Kennedy – “I wish that loved ones didn’t have to die too young. I wish that tragedy never haunted a single soul. But to wish all that is to ask for an end to our humanity. God, family, and country sustain us all.”
The ceremony included a fire bell that rang 5-5-5-5, and a moment of silence.
Similar observances took place in Marlborough, Hudson, Southborough and Shrewsbury.

Marlborough commemorated the 23rd anniversary of the 9-11 attacks with the placement of flags at the Walker Building. Courtesy Photo