Trump Leads Pentagon 9/11 Memorial, Vows Never to Forget

Lead: President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended a solemn Pentagon memorial on September 11, 2025, honoring the 2,977 victims of the 2001 terror attacks and pledging “never to forget”.

Nut Graf: Held in an internal courtyard rather than at the outdoor memorial, the ceremony reflected the nation’s mourning over the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, whom Trump announced would receive a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom.

At Pentagon Ceremony

• The names of the 184 service members and civilians killed when Flight 77 struck the Pentagon were read aloud, followed by a moment of silence and wreath-laying led by Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
• Trump recalled the heroism of first responders and passengers who fought back against hijackers, declaring, “We will never yield. We will never bend. We will never give up”.

Kirk Posthumous Honor

• Trump announced his intention to award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, calling him a “giant of his generation” and pledging to support Kirk’s family as law enforcement pursues the shooter.

Next Stop: Ground Zero

• Following the Pentagon observance, the Trumps were slated to travel to New York City for a brief ceremony at the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, where roses will be placed on the memorial pools.

Enduring Legacy

• Across the nation-from Shanksville, Pennsylvania, to New York-Americans observed Patriot Day with service projects, charity drives, and moments of reflection, reaffirming the vow that the sacrifices of September 11 will never be forgotten.