We Remember: Honoring September 11th

September 11th: A Defining Moment

On the morning of September 11, 2001, the United States faced an unprecedented terrorist attack. Nineteen terrorists hijacked four commercial planes, targeting iconic symbols of American strength. The attacks resulted in nearly 3,000 lives lost and forever changed the landscape of security and international relations.

• World Trade Center: Two planes crashed into the North and South Towers in New York City. The impact and subsequent collapse of the towers claimed the lives of office workers, first responders, and thousands of others, marking a catastrophic day in American history.

• The Pentagon: A third plane struck the Pentagon, the heart of U.S. military operations, resulting in further loss of life and a profound sense of vulnerability.

• Flight 93: The fourth plane was headed for another high-profile target but never made it. The passengers fought back, heroically forcing the plane to crash into a field in Pennsylvania, sacrificing their lives to save countless others.

In total, 2,977 people were killed in the attacks, and the aftermath brought sweeping changes in global security, policy, and public awareness.

Commemorating 9/11: Events, Places, and Advocacy

Today, we honor those lives lost and the resilience of a nation determined to rebuild and remember.

Key Memorial Events:

• Annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony: This annual gathering at Ground Zero includes moments of silence, the reading of victims' names, and serves as a somber reminder of the day that forever altered our world.

• Tribute in Light: Each year, twin beams of light illuminate the New York skyline, symbolizing the fallen towers and shining as a beacon of hope and remembrance.

• The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum: Opened in 2014, this museum offers a comprehensive journey through the events, artifacts, and personal stories from that day, preserving history for future generations.

Places of Remembrance:

• Ground Zero: The site of the Twin Towers now holds two reflecting pools, inscribed with the names of the victims. It’s a space of reflection, loss, and resilience.

• Flight 93 National Memorial: This memorial in Pennsylvania honors the passengers and crew who displayed unparalleled bravery, marking their sacrifice as a defining moment in the fight against terror.

Advocacy and Awareness:

• Jon Stewart’s Advocacy for First Responders: The former Daily Show host used his platform to highlight the ongoing health struggles of 9/11 responders, pressuring lawmakers to provide necessary support and compensation.

• Organizations and Foundations: Groups like the FealGood Foundation, founded by a first responder, continue to fight for the rights and health of those affected by the tragedy.

The Impact of 9/11 on Policy and Society

The events of September 11th set off a cascade of global changes, particularly in U.S. policy:

• War on Terror: The attacks led to the U.S. declaring a global War on Terror, which involved military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq and a broader commitment to combating extremism.

• Enhanced Security Measures: The U.S. ramped up airport security, created the Department of Homeland Security, and passed the Patriot Act, expanding surveillance powers in the name of national security.

• Changes in Public Opinion: The tragedy galvanized public support for aggressive foreign policies, although debates about the costs and implications of these actions continue to shape discourse today.

Today, in honor of those who risk their lives to protect our freedoms, America’s Web Club is committed to ensuring that everyone has an autonomous presence on the World Wide Web and stands ready to guide anyone through it. In support of the humans asked to risk life and limb to protect our liberties and freedoms, we extend a small token of savings. Use code SEPT112001 for $10 off membership, valid through September 14th.

May We Never Forget.