U.S. Marks 24th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks at 8:46 AM ET

Lead The United States observed solemn remembrance ceremonies nationwide today at 8:46 AM Eastern Time, marking 24 years since the first hijacked plane struck the World Trade Center in New York City.

Nut Graf Communities gathered at memorials and broadcast a moment of silence to honor the nearly 3,000 victims and to reflect on the enduring impact of the terrorist attacks, reaffirming national unity and resilience.

Main Part

When and Where

• At 8:46 AM ET on September 11, 2001, American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center in Manhattan.
• Seventeen minutes later, at 9:03 AM ET, United Airlines Flight 175 struck the south tower.

Who and How

• Nineteen al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners, using them as weapons.
• Two additional flights hit the Pentagon at 9:37 AM ET and a field in Pennsylvania at 10:03 AM ET after passengers intervened.

Why It Matters

• The attacks prompted sweeping security reforms, including creation of the Department of Homeland Security and global counterterrorism initiatives.
• Memorial sites in New York, Washington and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, stand as enduring tributes to lives lost.

Commemoration Events

• New York City: Wreath-laying at the 9/11 Memorial fountains and reading of victims’ names.
• Washington, D.C.: Pentagon ceremony featuring military honors and dignitary remarks.
• Shanksville, PA: Service at Flight 93 National Memorial highlighting passenger heroism.

Looking Forward Officials emphasized the importance of passing the stories of survivors, first responders and families to younger generations to safeguard the legacy of unity forged in the aftermath.