September 11th is an immensely emotional date for New York. This year, being the Tenth Anniversary, was especially so. Our priority this year—and every year—was to support the family members of the 67 British victims.
My day started in Lower Manhattan, where I joined BBC Radio 5 Live’s Peter Allen as he broadcasted the main World Trade Centre Memorial Service. I then went to the British Garden at Hanover Square, a block away from Wall Street, and a sanctuary amidst the hustle-and-bustle of the Financial District which honours not only the British victims, but also those from Canada and Australia. Thanks to the efforts and dedication of the Garden’s tireless Board, a wonderful memorial concert was held there in the afternoon, and the event programme was very much in line with the Garden’s motto, which reads “Reflect, Remember, Rebuild.” It was an honour to join Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Australian Consul-General Phil Scanlan in leading the tributes to our countries’ victims.
In what was a very uplifting concert the highlight was, of course, the music, and I’m sure everyone who was there would agree. Tony Hadley, lead singer of the band Spandau Ballet and a fellow Brit, sang “God Save the Queen,” and the event’s guests were treated to a programme by the West Yorkshire Police Brass Band; the Allied Forces Foundation Pipes and Drums; and InChorus, Lothian & Borders Police Choir and Tayside Police Choir. Guests marvelled at the combined performance of “Highland Cathedral” by the Brass Band and the Pipes and Drums, and the choirs sang a moving and original overlapping medley of “The Star Spangled Banner” and “Amazing Grace.” Attendees joined together in music, words, and fellowship, creating a fitting and moving tribute to those who were lost.
Many Brits played a big role last Sunday helping in so many ways – the choirs and bands above; members of our Police Forces who wanted to be a part of the day; Karl Jenkins, whose “The Armed Man; A Mass For Peace” was performed at the Lincoln Center; and of course, our own Consulate staff who did a great job to help in every way they could.
New York City will never forget the tragedy of September 11th, 2001. It is moving on but it is not forgetting; there is a spirit in the air of simultaneous remembrance and hope. This spirit serves to strengthen the resolve of New Yorkers to move forward from that terrible day with confidence, and we at the British Consulate are very proud to support those efforts. I encourage all visitors to New York to visit our Memorial Garden at Hanover Square.