On the morning of September 11, 2001, 19 men hijacked four U.S. commercial airplanes that had taken off with full fuel tanks for the West Coast. The hijackers deliberately crashed the planes into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and onto a field outside of Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The losses were devastating: A total of 2,977 people were killed in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania. On this day, we remember all those who lost their lives due to an unspeakable act of terrorism. If you wish to learn more about 9/11, we recommend these reads from cloudLibrary and hoopla:
September 11, also known as 9/11 Remembrance Day or Patriot Day, is a solemn occasion observed in the United States and around the world in memory of the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001. On that day, nearly 3,000 people were killed when al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four planes, crashing two into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, one into the Pentagon, and one in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers fought back.
Key aspects of the day include:
- National Day of Mourning: The day is designated as a national day of service and remembrance in the United States. Moments of silence are observed, particularly at 8:46 a.m. and 9:03 a.m., marking the times when the planes struck the Twin Towers.
- Memorial Services: Across the country, memorial services are held, including the main ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial in New York City. Names of the victims are read aloud, and family members, first responders, and public figures gather to honor those who lost their lives.
- Service and Volunteering: In addition to remembrance, many people choose to honor the victims by engaging in acts of service, charity, and community improvement.
- Symbols and Tributes: The Tribute in Light, two beams of light symbolizing the Twin Towers, illuminates the New York skyline each year on the evening of September 11. American flags are also flown at half-staff.
9/11 left a lasting impact on global politics, security, and the lives of millions, with the day serving as a reminder of both the tragedy and the resilience of the people in the face of adversity.
