Americans reflect on 25 years since 9/11 attacks
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Americans across the country commemorated the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks on Friday, remembering the nearly 3,000 people killed when al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked planes and crashed them into New York’s World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania.
Memorials included wreath-laying, readings of victims’ names, and volunteer work. A new poll showed about half of U.S. adults consider the day the most historic event of their lives.
Families of the victims participated in ceremonies, with Elsie Caldwell sharing a final message from her son, Kenny, who died in the attacks. Many relatives have never recovered remains of their loved ones. President Donald Trump spoke at the Pentagon, stating the attacks demonstrated the power of hate but also the strength of the American spirit. Former Presidents George W.
Bush, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden, along with Vice President JD Vance, gathered at the National September 11 Memorial in New York. Organizers added a moment of silence this year to honor those who died from illnesses linked to toxic dust released by the collapsing towers, acknowledging ongoing questions about the long-term health effects.
The attacks prompted significant changes to U.S. policy, including the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, new surveillance powers, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Some Muslim Americans faced increased prejudice after the attacks, but have since become more visible in public life.
