WASHINGTON, D.C — Remembrance ceremonies were held today in New York City, Shanksville, PA and Arlington, VA to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001.
184 of those individuals were killed in the attack on the Pentagon.
This morning at the Pentagon annual remembrance ceremony, attendees, loved ones and leaders held a long moment of silence to remember the 184 lives lost 23 years ago.
“We have repaired the damage to this building, but we cannot repair the damage to your hearts. No words can take away your grief. No amount of time can make sense of the worst terrorist attack in American history,” said Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.
It was at 9:37 am on September 11, 2001 when American Airlines flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon after being hijacked by terrorists. All 64 people on board and 125 people in the Pentagon were killed.
The day changed the course of American history. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said it was a day the Pentagon will never forget.
“It can feel as if more and more Americans are returning to normal life on each new September 11th. But not here. Not at the Pentagon, because we remember. Every day, we serve in the only surviving building struck by Al Qaida on 911. Everyday, we carry a powerful sense of purpose,” said Secretary Austin.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris participated in a wreath laying ceremony at the Pentagon Wednesday evening.
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill also attended some of the ceremonies and shared statements to mark the 23rd anniversary of 9/11.
“23 years ago, our city changed forever I remember the fear and loss—but also the unity and strength in the face of unimaginable tragedy,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D- NY) on the social media platform X. “We will #NeverForget those we lost on 9/11 and in the years since We will #NeverForget the bravery of New Yorkers and Americans nationwide.”
“Today, we come together to remember the lives taken on September 11, 2001. They were mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, first responders, and heroes. We also honor the survivors and first responders who’ve died from 9/11-related illnesses since that day. We will #NeverForget,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D- NY).
“Today marks the 23rd anniversary of a day that will forever be etched in the history of our country. We take pause to honor the fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives on that fateful day, and the thousands of Service Members who have given the ultimate sacrifice. NEVER FORGET,” said Congressman James Moylan (R- Guam).
