By Katie Vasquez
Dozens of New York’s bravest from Battalion 57 walked from Ground Zero across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Carrying 23 flags to honor the 23 members they lost in the 9/11 attacks. Brooklyn Bishop Robert Brennan walked among them in solidarity.
“It was an honor to walk among the firefighters. they really do watch over and protect us at great sacrifice,” said Diocese of Brooklyn Bishop Robert Brennan.
They made their way to the Co-cathedral of St Joseph for a special mass.
Retired Battalion Chief Edward Moriarty knew many of the men who lost their lives that day.
“It was one battalion, three firehouses and we lost so many men,” said Moriarty.
Joining Bishop Brennan on the altar was Father Anthony Palombo.
He was just 15 when his father, New York City firefighter, Frank Palombo, died at the World Trade Center trying to save others.
“My father, he gave his life every day, and September 11th was no different than any other day. He gave his life for his wife. He gave his life for his children. He gave his life for church,” said Father Anthony Palombo of the Archdiocese of Newark.
Many agree that being in church on this somber anniversary helps to heal the soul.
“Seeing other firefighters and who have all experienced this tremendous loss, it kind of it’s such a bonding,” said Moriarty.
“We walk in the darkness, but people have seen the people who have walked in the darkness, have seen a great light. and that comes from faith, that light that comes from Christ,” said Bishop Robert Brennan.
Although 23 years have passed, Father Anthony says he never stops thinking of his dad.
“There are just simply days I wake up and I miss my dad. There are plenty of times when I wake up and I say, I just want to have a conversation with my dad,” said Father Palombo.