September 11 is remembered in moving scene at Mets-Yankees game

“USA, USA, USA,” yelled the sold-out crowd at Citi Field.

The ceremony, commemorating the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center 20 years to the day, had yet to begin, but Mets and Yankees fans were ready for a moving half hour look back at that tragic day. , saluting and honoring those who have lost their lives or helped someone in need.

The stadium was almost full by 7 p.m. when the festivities began. A 9/11 banner was draped over the mound and an American flag was displayed on the big screen beyond the center field, resulting in more “USA” chants. Fans held up various signs recounting the day. One of them lifted a blue jersey from Mike Piazza. Another was holding a sign saying “United We Stand”, with the number 31 – Piazza number – underneath. American flags were everyone – in the stands and on the field, held by first responders.

Perhaps the most moving moment came when different groups of first responders representing the FDNY, NYPD, Port Authority Police Department, Sanitation Department, and Corrections Department were brought along outside fence from center left to center right, accompanied by various members of the 2001 Mets. At that time, the current Mets and Yankees teams, who were standing in their respective shelters and wearing agency hats. first responders, walked into the infield and lined up on every line and shook hands like “a united New York,” the sound system announcer said.

After a moment of silence and the national anthem, performed by the NYPD Cops and Kids Chorus, more thunderous chants of “USA, USA” erupted. Then, as the match approached, both groups of fans sang more traditional songs from the Subway series.

“Let’s go Yankees,” a faction of fans shouted.

“Let’s go put it,” replied the other.

As the two teams began to prepare to play, a video recalling the first professional game played in New York after September 11, when the Mets beat the Braves at Shea Stadium on September 21, 2001 after Mike Piazza hit two runs. , eighth inning homerun, has been shown. The two franchise managers in 2001, Bobby Valentine and Joe Torre, were then introduced to deliver the first ceremonial throws to a pair of first responders.

If Citi Field had a roof it would have exploded by then.