Pentagon pays tribute to 9/11 victims.
The Department of Defense Commemorates the 22nd Anniversary of 9/11
The Department of Defense held a solemn ceremony on Monday morning to mark the 22nd anniversary of the tragic 9/11 terror attacks. This day serves as a painful reminder of the devastating event that unfolded when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the southwest corner of the Pentagon.
On that fateful day, September 11, 2001, the hijacker’s actions claimed the lives of 184 individuals, including those aboard the plane and many others within the damaged building. Although the side of the Pentagon that was impacted has been rebuilt, the tradition of unfurling a large American flag off the building’s side continues every year, reminiscent of the garrison flag displayed in the aftermath of the attacks.
Remembering the Fallen
During the ceremony, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin delivered a heartfelt message, acknowledging the difficulty of this day and the enduring pain it brings. He emphasized that the men and women of the Department of Defense will always remember the events of September 11, 2001, even as time passes and the world moves forward.
“Sept. 11 made America a nation at war. And hundreds of thousands stepped up to serve our country in uniform. The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have come to a close. But we remain relentlessly focused on combating terrorist threats to America,” Secretary Austin stated.
All 184 names of the victims were read aloud during the ceremony, ensuring that each individual’s memory was honored and cherished.
A Memorial of Remembrance
The Pentagon houses a dedicated memorial to honor those who lost their lives in the attack. The memorial features benches dedicated to each victim, arranged according to their ages. Each bench includes a small reflective pool that illuminates in the evenings, creating a serene atmosphere. The positioning of the benches distinguishes between the victims on the plane and those inside the building, paying tribute to their unique stories.
Continuing the Tribute
Later in the day, Secretary Austin and Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will join first lady Jill Biden in a wreath-laying ceremony at the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial in Arlington, Virginia.
While President Joe Biden, who is returning from an overseas trip, will not be present in Washington to honor the anniversary, he will deliver remarks in Anchorage, Alaska. It’s important to note that previous presidents have also chosen not to attend the ceremony in New York, opting to visit other 9/11 sites or address the nation from the White House lawn.
Today, as we remember the lives lost and the resilience of our nation, let us stand united in our commitment to combatting terrorism and ensuring that the memory of 9/11 remains etched in our hearts forever.
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