Illinois Stories

Ralph Zaccariello, Hines

RALPH ZACCARIELLO
(Nominated by Michael Gorman)
Hines Veterans Affairs Hospital
May 3, 2011

Ralph Zaccariello, a member of the North Riverside, Illinois Fire Department, deserves our respect and thanks for his role in ensuring that the annual 9/11 memorial ceremony in North Riverside remains a part of our heritage. Over the past five years, Ralph has not only coordinated all aspects of the annual 9/11 memorial, but expanded it to pay tribute to today’s first responders. The North Riverside 9/11 ceremony is appropriately titled “A Celebration of Heroes”. Ralph feels that the past is best respected by combining this sacred 9/11 remembrance with a steadfast focus on today and tomorrow. The lessons learned will serve as a touchstone for all of us as well as all future generations of Americans.