On September 11, 2001, the world changed forever. Four coordinated terrorist attacks carried out by the extremist group Al-Qaida struck at the very heart of the United States. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost that morning, with more than 25,000 injured and countless others left with long-term health consequences. The destruction caused an estimated $10 billion in property and infrastructure damage, making 9/11 not only the deadliest terrorist attack in history, but also the single most tragic day for America’s first responders—343 firefighters and 72 law enforcement officers gave their lives in service.
At 8:46 a.m., hijacked Flight 11 crashed into floors 93–99 of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Just 17 minutes later, Flight 175 struck the South Tower between floors 77–85. The impacts, fueled by burning jet fuel, fatally compromised the towers’ steel supports and led to the collapse of both skyscrapers. Five additional buildings in the World Trade Center complex were also destroyed when the towers fell, leaving Lower Manhattan devastated.
In the immediate aftermath, thousands of volunteers and first responders poured into Ground Zero. They worked tirelessly on rescue, recovery, and cleanup efforts. On May 30, 2002, the final piece of World Trade Center steel was removed in a solemn ceremony, marking the end of one chapter but ensuring that the memory of sacrifice and resilience would never fade.
Today, 24 years later, the mission of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remains clear: to honor those lost, to support the families, and to remind the world of the power of unity in the face of tragedy. Each year, the names of the victims are read aloud in a moving tribute to ensure that every life is remembered. Survivors, loved ones, and visitors gather at the Memorial Plaza, standing as witnesses to the enduring legacy of courage, sacrifice, and hope.
As we reflect on this anniversary, we honor not only those who perished, but also the bravery of first responders, the resilience of survivors, and the compassion of the countless individuals who came together in the aftermath. September 11 will forever be a day of remembrance, a day when we recommit ourselves to unity, compassion, and the pursuit of peace.
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