Osama bin Laden’s death impacts nationally, locally

Sen. Jack Martins, of Elmont: “This brings closure to a very difficult time for the families of the victims of the terror attack. In Franklin Square and Elmont, hundreds have been touched by 9-11. The Elmont and Franklin Square Munson fire departments were some of the very first responders. Elmont was the staging area at Belmont racetrack for the relief operations for Ground Zero in the hours after the attack. I salute our armed forces, Pres. Obama and our intelligence services for the success of this operation. The death of Osama bin Laden will give our community some closure during a very difficult and trying time for our country.”

Bill Youngfert, a Franklin Square resident: “I am flying my flag outside my home. I’m so glad i replaced the flag pole and flag. I feel proud of our nation and now hope for a speedy end to conflicts overseas, so our young people can come home safe and help build a strong U.S.A. at home!”

Edward Mangano, Nassau County Executive: “The death of Osama bin Laden is a monumental step toward bringing a sense of justice to the victims of the September 11, 2011 terrorist attack on our nation.  I extend my deepest appreciation to our military and intelligence personnel who are primarily responsible for bringing this terrorist to justice.  Even with his passing it is important that we all remain vigilant in the war on terror both here and abroad.”

Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, whose Nassau County district suffered great losses in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001: “This is monumental news for so many Long Islanders who lost loved ones on Sept. 11, and responded so selflessly after that tragic day. Nothing will ever erase their pain and suffering, and the daily threat of terrorism is still very real, both at home and abroad, but Osama bin Laden’s death is a development that we can only hope will have a positive effect on the safety of our troops and citizens.”

Jerry Miceli, an Elmont native, who now lives in Texas, lost a friend, Eamon McEneaney, on Sept. 11, 2001. McEneaney worked in one of the Twin Towers: “He went to Sewanhaka High School, was one year ahead of me, and was a Lacrosse Hall of Fame member. He was a loving father of four girls, and had a beautiful wife. He worked in the towers and saved many people after the first attack.”