United States Commemorates 24th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks
UPDATE: The United States is marking the 24th anniversary of the devastating September 11, 2001 terror attacks, with solemn ceremonies taking place across the nation today. Families, dignitaries, and volunteers are gathering at key locations, including Ground Zero in New York City, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, to honor the nearly 3,000 victims of that tragic day.
In New York City, the ceremony is set to begin at 8:30 AM EDT, where the names of the victims will be read aloud. Attendees, including Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, will observe moments of silence at the exact times when the hijacked planes struck the Twin Towers and when they fell. This year, heightened security is in place following the recent killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a speaking engagement in Utah, prompting authorities to increase measures around the memorial site.
In a personal reflection, James Lynch, who lost his father in the attacks, shared that his family will attend a ceremony near their New Jersey hometown before spending time at the beach. “Finding the joy in that grief has been a huge part of my growth,” Lynch stated, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and community service. Earlier this week, he volunteered alongside others in Manhattan, preparing meals for those in need as part of a national day of service.
At the Pentagon, ceremonies will honor the 184 service members and civilians who perished when a hijacked plane hit the military headquarters. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will attend this service before heading to a baseball game between the New York Yankees and Detroit Tigers later in the day.
In Shanksville, a separate ceremony will commemorate the victims of Flight 93, where passengers bravely attempted to regain control of the aircraft. Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins is expected to attend this service, which will include moments of silence and the laying of wreaths.
As the nation reflects on this significant anniversary, many Americans are participating in community service projects, from food drives to park cleanups. This collective effort underscores the enduring spirit of resilience and unity that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks.
The tragic events of September 11 have had a lasting impact on U.S. policy and global relations, leading to the “Global War on Terrorism” and subsequent conflicts. The ongoing legal case against Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of the plot, remains unresolved after nearly two decades, with no trial date set for the former al-Qaida leader.
At the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, which features two memorial pools where the Twin Towers once stood, officials are exploring federal control over the site. The memorial, currently run by a public charity, is a focal point for remembrance and healing.
As the ceremonies unfold today, the nation stands united in remembrance, reflecting on the lives lost and the ongoing legacy of resilience that continues to inspire service and solidarity across communities.
