25 Years Later: America pauses to remember 9/11 victims (Image: Google)
Washington/New York: The United States is marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks, a day that reshaped global security and changed the course of history. Memorial events and tribute ceremonies are being held across the country, with special commemorations taking place in New York City, Washington DC and other locations. The anniversary is being observed with moments of silence, remembrance ceremonies and tributes honouring nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in the deadliest terror attack on American soil.
President Donald Trump attended the Pentagon commemoration ceremony and addressed the gathering to remember the victims of the attacks. While all living former US presidents participated in the anniversary ceremony in New York City, Trump chose the Pentagon event to deliver remarks. According to people familiar with his plans, political leaders have traditionally not been allowed to speak during the main New York ceremony.
During the Pentagon ceremony, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine highlighted the courage and unity displayed by Americans after the attacks. Remembering those killed at the Pentagon, aboard American Airlines Flight 77 and United Airlines Flight 93, Caine said the nation continues to honour the victims and heroes who responded during the crisis.
The New York City commemoration included a new seventh moment of silence this year to remember people who died from illnesses linked to exposure to toxic dust and debris after the World Trade Center collapse. The tribute comes as the city recently released more than 170,000 pages of previously undisclosed records related to air quality conditions after the attacks.
The documents have raised questions about what officials knew regarding environmental risks around Ground Zero in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The September 11 attacks remain one of the most defining moments of the 21st century. Four commercial aircraft were hijacked by terrorists, with two planes crashing into the World Trade Center towers in New York, one hitting the Pentagon and another crashing in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to regain control. The attacks led to major changes in global counterterrorism strategies, airport security systems and international security policies.
Twenty-five years later, the United States continues to remember the victims, honour first responders and reflect on the lasting impact of that tragic day.
