Twenty-four years after Sept. 11, 2001, Americans remember the nearly 3,000 lives in the terror attacks at the World Trade Center in lower Manhattan, at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
The remembrances are being held during a time of increased political tensions. The 9/11 anniversary, often promoted as a day of national unity, comes a day after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at a college in Utah. Follow along for live updates.
Many in the crowd at ground zero held up photos of lost loved ones as a moment of silence marked the exact time when the first hijacked plane struck the iconic twin towers.
Family members then read aloud the names of the victims, with many giving personal remembrances, well wishes and updates on their lives.
Zoe Doyle, daughter of Frank Joseph Doyle, said her family created a nonprofit in his honor that’s built schools in South Africa and is feeding and educating thousands of children.
Manuel DaMota Jr. said he remembers his father and namesake, Manuel DaMota, not just with grief, but with gratitude for the example he set.
“In a world filled with division and conflict, I do my best to honor my father by choosing connection, empathy and hope,” he said.
Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker M Chief of Department John Esposito laid a wreath at the Firemen’s Monument as the nation marks 24 years since the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.