(FREEHOLD, NJ) -- The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners will hold the Monmouth County Sept.11 Memorial Ceremony for a time of reflection and remembrance at Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook at 460 Ocean Boulevard, Atlantic Highlands, NJ on Saturday, September 11 at 8:00am. In addition, the monument will be open for extended evening hours until 11:00pm on September 10, 11 & 12.

“As we approach the 20th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, the Board of County Commissioners invite the families of those who lost their lives during this tragedy,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “We will never forget what took place around the country on that tragic day, in particular, to the 147 families that lost loved ones who call Monmouth County home. We must continue to offer support to the families in any way possible.”

“Mount Mitchill is home to the Monmouth County’s 9/11 Memorial which is a tribute to the 147 men and women who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks,” said Commissioner Ross F. Licitra, liaison to the Monmouth County Park System. “The path leading to the memorial chronicles the events of that day and at the center is the light stone sculpture of any eagle by local artist Franco Minervini. This eagle grasps a beam from the World Trade Center. It is a fitting tribute and our way of honoring those who lost their lives that day.” 

At 266 feet, this overlook in Atlantic Highlands sits on the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic seaboard (excluding islands) from Maine to the Yucatan providing beautiful views of Sandy Hook, Sandy Hook Bay, Raritan Bay and the New York skyline. This 12-acre site is also home to Monmouth County's 9/11 Memorial.

In 2002, the Monmouth County 9/11 Committee formed and began making plans for a fitting tribute to the victims, heroes, and events of September 11th. The group’s first responsibility was to select a memorial to fit into Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook. The 9/11 Committee then embarked on a major fundraising effort to finance the Memorial. By midsummer 2005 the group exceeded its goal by raising $296,000. Continued donations will support the upkeep and maintenance of the Memorial.

DIRECTIONS: FROM GARDEN STATE PARKWAY: Exit 117, follow Hwy. 36 East (about 13 miles) to jughandle signs for "Red Bank/Scenic Road." Follow signs to Park.  FROM SANDY HOOK/SEA BRIGHT: Hwy. 36 (Ocean Ave) North over Highlands Bridge to Navesink Ave./Scenic Road. Stay to right and follow signs to Park. 

On-site parking will be limited. Please follow signs for remote parking and shuttle bus service.