This year is the 20^th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Sept. 9, 2001 is a day no American can forget. Most people can remember exactly where they were and what they were doing that day. This exemplifies the impact that day had on our country. We lost many of our citizens, but gained strength and union we will never lose. This year will consist of traditions and new events to commemorate the events of 9/11.

To make this year unique, there will be traveling exhibits and television specials. Also, the traditional name reading of victims will take place in Lower Manhattan, NY. What is particularly special about this year’s events is that previously, many events were not able to occur due to COVID-19 restrictions. This year, locations around the country are now able to safely hold these special ceremonies. Because this upcoming 9/11 will be the 20-year mark of the events that took place, Americans are more eager to celebrate their fallen heroes and take part in their community’s healing. Additionally, the annual Tribute in Light commemoration is being held where the Twin Towers once stood. It is important that these traditions stay alive so that we never forget the nearly 3,000 heroes who gave their lives for the people of our country.

On Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, at 8:45 am, an American Airlines plane was hijacked by terrorists and crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center, killing hundreds of people. Then, at 9:03 am, another plane hit the south tower, destroying the World Trade Center. Exactly 42 minutes after the twin tower attacks, Flight 77 crashed into the west side of the Pentagon, where the U.S. Department of Defense is housed. Another plane, Flight 93, targeted the U.S. Capitol. However, the flight members were able to fight the hijackers, causing the plane to crash in an open field in Pennsylvania instead of the Capitol building. The members on that flight saved countless lives as they sacrificed their own. Those 19 terrorists who attacked America on Sept. 11 tried to take so much away from us. They took away our monuments, and even our people, but what they were not able to take away was America’s hope and spirit. Many say the tragic events of that day brought our country closer together. Our communities were able to entwine with one another. Yes, the people of this country went through something horrible, but they went through it together.

Charles R. Swindoll once said, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” Terrible things will happen to everyone, but how you come out of it is what shows who you are as a person. America was able to come together and grow from the horrific events that took place. This country did not crumble or fall apart, but we showed the world that we are strong and that we will not perish. 9/11 is dedicated to those who need to and who will be remembered. It is a part of our history that continues to shape each person in our country. The nearly 3,000 people that died on that beautiful Tuesday morning will never be forgotten. Their courage is what fills us with the conviction to do what we do every day. Their sacrifice is a reminder of the strength of our people and our nation. For that, these heroes will forever be remembered, so long as we continue to hold them close to our hearts and dear in our prayers.