Dutchess Sheriff holds solemn 9/11 remembrance

September 11, 2022
2:35 pm

POUGHKEEPSIE – First responders and family gathered at the Dutchess County Law Enforcement Center on Sunday as Dutchess County Sheriff Kirk Imperati remembered the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on September 11, and the ones who have died as a result of 9/11 illnesses.

“The world we live in today – memories are short, and it’s a shame,” Imperati said as he renewed the vow to “never forget,” and made a plea for society to join him in that vow.

DCSO Chief Deputy Jason Mark playing taps at the 2022 memorial.

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 333 President Mike Hendryk recognized the families of two members of law enforcement that died as a result of 9/11-related illnesses. “Today we honor the nearly 3,000 souls that perished on 9/11 and the ones that died from related illnesses. We also honor the families that lost loved ones as a result of the attacks,” he said, adding “The pain and suffering endured by the families are unimaginable.”

New York State Police Zone Sergeant James Sweeney died in March of 2021 at the age of 68. The former Troop K sergeant battled illnesses related to his 2001 Ground Zero assignment. He first became ill in 2016. His widow Noreen attended the remembrance.

Paul Hansut died in July after a vigorous fight against pancreatic cancer. The 56-year-old Hansut had a storied career in law enforcement, having served with the Town of Lloyd before going to the City of Poughkeepsie where he became a very successful detective. Hansut had also served as an Ulster County legislator and Town of Lloyd supervisor, before his passing. Hansut’s widow Gina, now an Ulster County legislator, attended the ceremony attended the service, and spent a few minutes with Imperati before the ceremony began.