Helping to enhance the safety of Juno Beach

September 12, 2025 — Volume 8 Number 15

NYPD Deputy Commissioner Maureen Casey Headlines 9/11 Remembrance in Juno Beach

On the morning of September 11, the Juno Beach community gathered at the corner of Ocean Drive and Celestial Way, where the September 11th Memorial Fountain stands. As attendees arrived, they were greeted by the solemn sound of a bagpiper, setting a reflective tone for the ceremony. The event began at 8:30 a.m. with a welcome from Town Manager Robert Cole and the introduction of honored guests by Mayor Peggy Wheeler.

Police Chaplain Father Arthur Venezia offered the invocation, followed by Assistant Chief Mark Saloio leading the pledge of allegiance. The pledge took place beneath a large American flag draped from a Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue aerial ladder — a powerful symbol of unity overhead. Bagpiper David Lairson then performed “Amazing Grace,” followed by a moment of silence led by Chief of Police Brian Smith. Nathan Davis sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” drawing the crowd into a shared moment of national pride.

Deputy Commissioner Maureen Casey, NYPD (retired), delivered the keynote address. Introduced by Town Manager Cole, she offered a solemn and deeply personal reflection drawn from her presence on the ground in the immediate aftermath of the attacks. She was there — amid the rubble — helping to lead the Police response, coordinating efforts to recover the fallen and care for the living. Her words, forged in the chaos and courage of that day, reminded the gathering of both the immense human loss and the steadfast resolve of first responders. As her testimony lingered in the air above the memorial fountain, the crowd stood in thoughtful silence.

Following her remarks, Mr. Davis returned to perform “America the Beautiful,” providing a stirring, patriotic close to the keynote.

Chief of Police Brian Smith then thanked Ms. Casey, the participants, and the attendees for their presence and involvement in the day's remembrance — and for never forgetting the sacrifices made. Drawing briefly on his own experience serving at the 9/11 site during the recovery period, he spoke with particular appreciation for the message just delivered. He then introduced Police Chaplains Pastor Jim Graeser and Rabbi Berel Namdar, who offered a closing benediction. As the audience moved toward the Town Center, the bagpiper accompanied them with “God Bless America.” Inside the Council Chambers, attendees gathered for a light breakfast and quiet reflection.

The 9/11 Memorial event was organized by the Town of Juno Beach and the Juno Beach Police Department and proudly sponsored by the Juno Beach Police Foundation. It was a meaningful gathering of remembrance and community, united under the enduring theme: "We Will Never Forget."

Please forward this email to a friendForward this newsletter to a Friend or Neighbor.
To subscribe, visit www.jbpf.info/subscribe
To learn more about our Foundation visit: www.jbpf.info.

Juno Beach Police Foundation
Board of Directors