WASHINGTON, D.C (WZMQ 19 News) — 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 nation experienced one of our darkest moments. We must never forget the thousands who lost their lives on that horrific day, the first responders who ran headfirst into danger, and the servicemembers and veterans who served in the Global War on Terrorism,” said Sen. Gary Peters (D- MI) on the social media platform X.
“Today, we remember the thousands of Americans who lost their lives on September 11th and pay tribute to the bravery of the first responders and service members who sacrificed so much in response. My heart is with all of those who are missing their loved ones today,” said Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D- MI) on X.
