Jax State Police Officer Honors 9/11 Heroes at 23rd Anniversary Ceremony in New York City
10/04/2024
Jacksonville State University (Jax State) Police Officer Stephen Hooks represented Jax State and Alabama law enforcement at the 23rd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States. Returning to New York City for the first time since responding to the attacks, Officer Hooks participated in the Calling of the Names Ceremony at Saint Paul’s Chapel in lower Manhattan. This solemn tribute honors responders who contributed to the 9/11 rescue and recovery efforts and memorializes law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical service professionals, public works providers, and others who have died from 9/11-related illnesses. Officer Hooks was honored to read the names of Sanitation Officer Lee Baer, Mariner Captain Chris Wise, and FBI Special Agent Todd Spiker.
On September 11, 2001, as the nation watched in horror as events unfolded in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, then-Etowah County deputies Officer Hooks and current Jax State Police Officer Donyale Richard answered the call to respond to New York City. While serving at Ground Zero, the officers assisted the NYPD with site security, vehicle checkpoints, escorts for family members of victims killed at the World Trade Center, distribution of water, food, and medical supplies, and other tasks as needed.
In May 2024, Officer Hooks was contacted by Jeannie Kelley, Director of Outreach for the World Trade Center Health Program and 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund, with an invitation to return to New York City to assist with the Calling of the Names Ceremony. Arriving on September 10 for the first time in 23 years, Officer Hooks participated in a series of commemorative events that allowed him to reconnect with fellow responders and reflect on the impact of that tragic day.
During his visit, he attended the Voices of Resilience Symposium, which highlighted updates in programs supporting 9/11 responders and victims, including the World Trade Center Health Program and ongoing litigation. He also spent time at the 9/11 Memorial, where he quietly reflected on the engraved names surrounding the north and south pools, a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives.
On September 11, before the Calling of the Names Ceremony, Officer Hooks observed moments of silence with the FDNY at World Trade Center 4, honoring the exact times the attacks occurred. Later that day, he met notable figures such as former Governor George Pataki at the 9/11 Freedom Awards and revisited key sites like St. Paul’s Chapel, firehouses, and the 9/11 Museum. His visit not only served as a tribute to the fallen but also brought a sense of closure to his own journey as a first responder during the 9/11 rescue and recovery efforts.