Each year on Sept. 11, the nation pauses to remember the tragic events of 2001, a day forever etched in American history. Today marks 25 years since that day, and this year’s Patriot Day in particular serves as both a solemn remembrance of those lost that day and a testament to the strength and unity of the American people who came together to help and heal.
Every Sept. 11, Americans are encouraged to observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the Twin Towers, and to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff in honor of the nearly 3,000 innocent lives that were lost that morning during the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and aboard Flight 93, and those who were impacted in the days, months and years that followed.
Patriot Day is not only about remembering those lost, but also about honoring the countless acts of bravery and compassion that shone through that day — first responders rushing into danger, citizens helping strangers and communities coming together in solidarity.
As America reflects on Sept. 11, let us honor the memory of those who perished, pay tribute to the heroes who rose that day, and recommit ourselves to the ideals of freedom and unity that define our nation. Military and Veteran Services will also be sponsoring and participating, and encourages the community to join, in WSU’s 9/11 day of service today.