Sept. 11 Attacks Mark 24th Anniversary with Global Commemorations

Lead Today marks 24 years since the September 11 terrorist attacks claimed nearly 3,000 lives across New York City, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania on September 11, 2001, underscoring ongoing efforts to remember and heal.

Nut Graf On this solemn anniversary, governments, first responders and families unite to honor victims, reflect on the attacks’ profound impact on national security policy and reaffirm commitments to resilience and unity.

Main Part

Who and What

  • Four hijacked commercial airliners-American Airlines Flights 11 and 77, United Airlines Flights 93 and 175-were used in coordinated suicide attacks orchestrated by al-Qaeda operatives.
  • Nearly 2,750 perished in the World Trade Center towers, 184 at the Pentagon and 40 aboard Flight 93, which crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
  • Thousands more suffered long-term health issues from rescue and recovery efforts.

Where and When

  • At 8:46 a.m. EDT on September 11, 2001, Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, signaling the start of the deadliest foreign attack on U.S. soil.
  • By 10:03 a.m., Flight 93 crashed in rural Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to overpower hijackers.

Why and How

  • The attacks propelled sweeping changes to U.S. homeland security, including creation of the Department of Homeland Security, expanded intelligence coordination and the PATRIOT Act.
  • Memorials at Ground Zero, the Pentagon and Flight 93 National Memorial host wreath-laying ceremonies, 43-second moments of silence and readings of victims’ names.

Global Observances

  • World leaders, survivors and first responders participated in televised services and interfaith prayers in New York, Washington and beyond.
  • Educational programs and exhibitions opened today to teach new generations about the events’ historical and cultural significance.

Looking Ahead

  • Officials vow to preserve the memory of 9/11 through continued support for survivors, scholarships for children of victims and funding for medical research into attack-related illnesses.
  • Commemorative events will conclude with candlelight vigils this evening, fostering unity and hope against terror.