The Vets

This set of photographs is from a personal project of mine from post 9-11

 

A few blocks from Ground Zero is a small park dedicated to US Servicemen and in the years leading up to 9-11 had become quite run down.  The local BID had come up with the money to restore it and it was supposed to be rededicated on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2001, a mere 60 days after 9-11. 

 

I volunteered my photographic services to the NY chapter of the Vietnam Veteran’s Association and proceeded for the next three years to join them at their parade.  Miraculously, the park was able to be rededicated the day before Veteran’s Day 2001!  

 

Rolling Thunder, the famous motorcycle club, made their presence known with riders arriving in a massive motorcade from Washington DC.  It was a beautifully moving series of events that weekend.

 

Many of these images were created that first year.  Most New Yorkers were in a state of shock and disbelief and I felt then and still do, that my street portraits reflect that sentiment.