For millions of people all over the world, September 11, 2001 is a memorable day. This Monday marks the 22 anniversary of the devastating 9/11 terrorist attack. On this day, ceremonies are being held across the United States to honor and remember those lost in the unfortunate disaster.
September 11, 2001
On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 lives were lost. Although, this day started just like any other day for Americans, chaos broke out in New York. A horrible attack hit the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers. Two hijacked planes crashed into the towers, causing them to later collapse.
The first Twin Tower hit was the North Tower. The first hijacked plane to hit the Twin Towers was, American Airlines Flight 11. This happened at 8:46 a.m. Panic broke out in the city, every news channel was broadcasting the event live. Then, at 9:03 a.m., the other hijacked plane crashed into the South Tower.
The second coalition was shown live on the news. Moreover, in the recorded footage, people are running everywhere frantically, the air was Smokey and dirty. Paramedics, Firefighters, and police were swarming the area attempting to save those inside the Twin Tower.
Additionally, two other planes were hijacked as well. One flew into the pentagon, the other crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, not long after the coalitions the Twin Towers collapsed. They fell at about 10:30 a.m.
This day horrifying day changed Americans life’s. Also, fear and distrust spread throughout the nation. However, this day is remembered to honor all the life’s lost and those who risked their lives to save others.
9/11 Memorials
On September 11th people all around the united states hold ceremonies and events to honor the victims of 9/11. In fact, the ground that used to once held the twin towers is now referred to as “Ground Zero.” Ground Zero contains, two large pools with waterfalls around its walls, wrapped around the pool are the names of the 9/11 victims. This spot contains beautiful architecture and knowledge of the hard history Americans went through. Additionally, Americans go to Ground Zero on 9/11 to pay their respects and to mourn those they lost.
This years 9/11 marks the 22 year since the attacks. And, this year in New York the annual memorial at Ground zero included music and like always, the names of those deceased were read out loud. Families showed up with photographs, flowers, and some even wore their own custom shirts displaying the people they lost in.
Not only did those around the community attended, but so did others from around the world. Not to mention, well known politicians like Vice President Kamala Harris, New York City’s Mayor Eric Addams,
Chicago’s 9/11 Memorials
Not only does New York hold great memorials, so does Chicago. In Chicago IL, the Chicago Fire Department held a 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony at Engine 42. The event began at 7:35 a.m. just a few minutes before the first Twin Tower was hit in 9/11. Also, bells rang and bagpipes played. Firefighters, elected officials, and Mayor Brandon Johnson attended.
Secondly, Naperville’s memorial is just as honorable, the attendees included, survivors, families, and heroes. Furthermore, in River Forest their annual “LemonAid” tradition was in place.
The “LemonAid” tradition is when the community come together, and throw a block party. The “LemonAid” block party serves the purpose of raise money, which is used for 9/11 events. Also, The donations raised will be shared to local charities for people in need.
Honoring the Victims and Heroes
On this day, candles will be lit, photographs will be on display, and thousands of Americans will mourn. On every September 11, the story of the 9/11 attacks will be shared. A moment of silence will take place for those who died.
Additional, the children of today must know what obstacles were faced in the previous years. Lastly, Americans mustn’t forget this day, despite the tribulations faced, Americans persevered and regained strength.
Written by Meredith Garcia
Resources
NYTIMES: 9/11 Anniversary: Victims Families Gather at Ground Zero
CBSNEWS: 9/11 Memorial Events Mark 22 Years Since the Attacks and Remember Those Who Died
ABC7: Chicago area remembers attacks on September 11, 2001
Featured and Top Image Courtesy of Ivan Velazco’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
First Inset Image Courtesy of TomH2323‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
