New York City, New York

2003

More than 15 years ago we visited New York City with friends John and Carol.  We stayed in Navy facilities on Roosevelt Island.  At that time we rode to the top of one of the twin towers.   As I remember, there was a walkway on the very top of the building and, because the buildings were so tall, it felt like we were on an airplane.  The view from there was incredible.  It was a highlight of our trip.  We wanted to at least get to Ground Zero this trip.

We found a campground near Netcong, New Jersey and followed the owner's advice by driving the 40 miles into Liberty National Park and taking the water taxi across to the city.  It docks within a few blocks of the site.   We walked the entire perimeter in total awe.  It boggles the mind to think about what happened on 9-11 when you're standing right where it happened.   On one side is a viewing wall with a plaque that reads as follows:   "On this site on August 21st, 2002, Governor George E. Pataki of New York, Governor James E. McGreevey of New Jersey and Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg of New York City proclaimed that in the honor of the heroes of September 11, 2001, this viewing wall would be erected by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey so that the world community can reflect upon and remember the events that took place here, and draw strength and inspiration as we rebuild."

Names of Lives Lost  Terry looking at Ground Zero Building to be destroyed
Cleared 6 stories below street  Building with Banner Before and After 9-11
Tribute in Lights (postcard)

After a quick bite to eat at a Subway sandwich shop, we walked many, many blocks up to Manhattan to the Empire State Building.  The line to go to the Observatory on the 86th floor was long, but they handle crowds well and it was worth the wait.  We picked up a tape and recorder for the audio tour on the 80th floor.  Again, it is an incredible vista of New York City in all directions. 

View from the top of the Empire State Building             Another view from the Empire State Building

We continued walking up Broadway to Times Square and from there found a subway to catch back to the World Trade Center area.

Times Square - crowded on Sunday          More Times Square         Even more Times Square