Remembering the Tragic Events of 9/11
On this Patriot Day, we solemnly commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the horrific events that unfolded on September 11, 2001. American flags across the nation are lowered to half-mast, and a moment of silence is observed, both at 8:46 a.m. and 10:28 a.m., to mark the precise moments when tragedy struck.
Recalling the Unthinkable: Four Planes Hijacked
Today, we remember the harrowing and terrifying day when four planes were hijacked, forever changing the course of history. The shockwaves of that day still resonate, and the scars it left behind are etched into the collective memory of the nation.
Tragedy Strikes: The Twin Towers and the Pentagon
Three of these hijacked planes achieved their sinister objectives, crashing into their intended targets—the iconic Twin Towers in New York City and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. These deliberate acts of terror led to the loss of 2,977 lives.
The Heroes Among Us
Amidst the chaos and devastation, heroes emerged. 343 New York City firefighters, 23 New York City police officers, 37 Port Authority of New York and New Jersey officers, eight emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and one patrolman courageously faced the inferno. Meanwhile, Flight 77, hijacked and directed into the Pentagon, claimed the lives of all 59 passengers and crew, along with 130 more innocent souls.
A Tale of Heroism: Shanksville’s Fourth Plane
In Shanksville, Pennsylvania, a fourth hijacked plane was brought down in a field. The heroic passengers onboard fought valiantly against the hijackers, preventing even greater loss of life.
Never Forgotten: The Ongoing Search for Closure
Even after more than two decades, there are still unidentified victims of the 9/11 attacks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued 2,734 death certificates directly related to the World Trade Center attacks, and they had to amend their classifications to include “death due to a terrorist attack.”
Honoring the Fallen: Memorials Across the Nation
Memorials now stand at all three attack locations, serving as poignant reminders of the lives lost. The names of the departed have been spoken, published, and engraved in the nation’s heart, ensuring they will never be forgotten.
Patriot Day: An Evolving Tribute
In September 2002, then-President George W. Bush declared 9/11 as a Day of Remembrance and introduced Patriot Day to honor the fallen. Over the years, this solemn observance has evolved. President Barack Obama designated 9/11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, emphasizing unity and service in the face of adversity. The legacy continued when President Donald Trump expanded the observance, designating September 8-10 as National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, with 9/11 as Patriot Day.
On this Patriot Day, we honor the memory of those who perished, the heroes who emerged, and the enduring spirit of unity and resilience that defines our nation in the face of adversity.