Coram 9/11 memorial to add tribute to dogs

A tribute to the animals that served doggedly at Ground Zero and in war zones abroad will be added to the Sept. 11 memorial at the Diamond in the Pines Park in Coram.

In a joint effort by Brookhaven Town and the Rocky Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6249, a bronze statue of a German shepherd is to be funded by private donations and completed by the next 9/11 anniversary.

"I am proud to work again with the Rocky Point VFW to make sure that all of those who were part of that fateful day are remembered and appreciated, including the animals," Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner said in a news release.

The memorial park was unveiled in September for the 10th anniversary of the attacks.

The memorial to dogs, estimated to cost between $10,000 and $15,000, will be completed by August and unveiled at the ceremony for the 11th anniversary, said Rocky Point VFW commander Joe Cognitore.

For more information, call Cognitore at 631-744-8539.