Sayville Reacts to Osama bin Laden’s Death

While the news of Osama bin Laden's death was greeted with cheers by many across the United States, Sayville residents were far more somber and recalled the lives of those lost nearly 10 years ago.

Sayville resident Astrid Bonamico, who has , said, “Like many Americans, I think this is a day of victory that we have been waiting for. It is time for everyone to hang the American flag, but we have to remember that bin Laden had many followers and we cannot let our guard down.”

Bonamico will watch her daughter Heather graduate Basic Training from the Navy as an E-3 Seaman this weekend.

“I am looking forward to seeing her graduate and would be very disappointed if the government doesn't allow visitors because of security issues,” she said.

Sayville lost three residents during the terrorist attacks of 9/11: Brendan McCabe, 40, Vice President of Fiduciary Trust International; Richard Prunty, 57, Battalion Chief FDNY and Lincoln Quappe, 38, FDNY Rescue 2 and also a volunteer for the Sayville Fire Department.

“The Sayville Fire Department still grieves the loss of Sayville Volunteer Firefighter/FDNY Rescue 2 Firefighter Lincoln Quappe,” said Sayville Fire Chief Thomas Pantano.

“[Osama bin Laden’s death] news does not bring back the lives lost from the tragic events that happened on September 11th, but it does bring some closure and confidence that we will continue to succeed in the war on terrorism and continue to bring all of those responsible to justice. Please continue to keep in your prayers all of the families of September 11th victims and especially the families of Sayville residents, Lincoln Quappe, Richard Prunty, and Brendan McCabe,” he added.

While people flocked to New York City’s Ground Zero to gather, sing patriotic songs and chat “U.S.A.,” residents of Sayville reflected on bin Laden’s death locally.

"I understand that everyone is excited about justice being served, and I agree it is a great, defining moment not just for the US, but for the entire world, but I think instead of all the hooting, hollering and partying like children like they did to us on 9/11, we should all take a moment of silence to show respect to those who are suffering this morning, who still aren’t going to get their loved ones back or who are still out there in grave danger,” said Sayville resident Jennifer Watson.

“My heart is with them today. Let’s show the world through action that we sought justice and not revenge. Otherwise we are no better than the terrorists," she added.

After 9/11, Sayville joined together to remember the victims and their families by creating The Common Ground, which was built as a in Rotary Park to commemorate the victims and heroes of the terrorist attacks. Local civic leaders, business owners, politicians and residents came together to fundraise and support this effort.

Now events are held at The Common Ground throughout the year to bring Sayville residents together and a memorial is held each year on Sept. 11 to remember all whose lives were impacted.

Cary Maya wrote the that greets visitors as they enter the Common Ground’s reflective garden:

“This precious park, conceived in the wake of September 11, 2001. Is lovingly offered and maintained by the community. May it stand as a breathing testament to the infinite possibilities present. When good people cherish their entire village as home and their neighbor as family. Like the splendid gardens it houses may it flourish and grow.”