The Village of Malverne gathered Sept. 11 to mark the 25th anniversary of the World Trade Center attacks, remembering four community members who lost their lives and honoring first responders and others affected by the attacks.
The annual ceremony brought village officials, residents, first responders and family members together for an evening of remembrance. Among those remembered were Scott Bart, Jacqueline Donovan, James Haran and Diane Urban, four Malverne residents whose names remain closely connected to the community’s memory of Sept. 11.
Mayor Timothy Sullivan reflected on the importance of returning to the ceremony each year and preserving the memories of those who were lost.
“When we’re here on 9/11 with one another, those memories come back to you,” Sullivan said.
Family members shared personal memories focused not only on Sept. 11, but on the lives their loved ones built before that day.
Danny Bart spoke about his son Scott, recalling his personality, sense of humor, family life and career.
“There are tremendous memories that I have of Scott,” Bart said.
Jacqueline Donovan’s family remembered her as a caring, creative and generous person who grew up in Malverne. They spoke about her connection to the village and residents who still share stories about her. The family also honored her legacy by naming a grandchild after her.
Retired NYPD detective and lifelong Malverne resident Jason Houlihan paid tribute to James Haran and Diane Urban.
“I received a call yesterday from the village requesting if I’d say a few words about two departed members from the town here,” Houlihan said. “I was absolutely humbled, and I’m happy to be here to speak tonight about Diane and James.”
Haran was remembered as a devoted husband, father, son and friend who cherished his family and the home he created in Malverne.
Urban’s family recalled her compassion and efforts to assist another person during the attacks, reflecting the selflessness they said characterized her life.
The ceremony also recognized first responders who died while attempting to save others on Sept. 11 and those who have since died from illnesses connected to the attacks. Candles and flowers were incorporated into the remembrance.
Twenty-five years after the attacks, Malverne’s annual ceremony continues to bring the community together through personal stories, family tributes and prayer while preserving the memories of those who were lost.
