View and comment on S.B. memorial designs

Americans paused to reflect on some of the major events that shaped modern history over the last year or so — the 60th anniversary of D-Day, the 50th of the Korean War armistice and the 40th of John F. Kennedy’s assassination, to name a few. For many families, televised documentaries and public ceremonies on these dates sparked conversations on the events’ deeper meanings.

In some cases, sons and daughters asked their parents what they remembered about those turbulent times. But with the passing of our elders each year, those conversations are inevitably becoming fewer. And so it will one day be with Sept. 11, 2001, a date that still holds a strong emotional attachment for Americans as a whole, but New Jerseyans in particular.

That is why when South Brunswick chooses a final design for its 9/11 memorial, it must be something built to last, and something that will speak to future generations. That is where you, the residents of South Brunswick, can make a difference.

After receiving 28 design entries for the memorial, the search has been narrowed down to five. Each concept will be on display over the next four weeks in the lobby of the municipal building, 540 Ridge Road. Township officials will consider all of the public opinion left in comment boxes placed beside the exhibits before making a final decision on the monument this winter.

We commend South Brunswick’s mayor and Township Council for actively pursuing the public’s input on the memorial design, a decision which has been made in some municipalities by small committees of public officials. We would also encourage South Brunswick residents to stop by the building, see the designs for yourselves and lend your voice in deciding how that day should be remembered in your hometown for generations to come.