'Never Forget,' Say Deputies Who Worked For NYPD During 9/11

Bradenton FL

11 September, 2021

5:12 PM

Description

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — Twenty years ago, three deputies currently working for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office were members of the New York Police Department during the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. Now, two decades after the terror attack, Sgt. John Neri, Dep. Kurt Potter and Dep. Kevin Kobetitsch are asking Americans to "never forget" that day, the sheriff's office wrote on its Facebook page. Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. "They ask that…we remember — remember those lost, remember the brave, remember the way each of us felt that day and how our nation came together to help one another," MCSO said. On 9/11, each of them — Neri, Potter and Kobetitsch — responded to the twin towers after hijackers flew planes into the buildings, which eventually fell. More than 2,600 people were killed at the World Trade Center. "One was working in Queens, one had taken his preschooler to school and was at home preparing to go on shift, and the other was asleep after just finishing his shift. They could have never imagined what would happen that fateful morning," the sheriff's office said. Like what you're reading? Invite a friend to subscribe to free Bradenton newsletters and real-time email alerts. They didn't hesitate when they were called to the tragic scene, MCSO said. "All three answered the call and their oath to serve and protect their city. Without hesitation, they left their homes and families and walked into the unknown, much like so many first responders do daily. This day was different. It would leave a lasting impact on each of them, their families, coworkers, city, and our nation." The three never met while in New York but have connected over their shared experiences after moving to Manatee County. "They did not know each other that day, but they do now, and they will forever be bonded by their experience and their service to NYPD and MCSO," the sheriff's office said.