Hicks, Grady Commemorate 9/11 at Pentagon

Emotional Ceremony Honors Victims, Service Members

During an emotional ceremony at the Pentagon on Sunday, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark A. Milley joined survivors and family members of the 9/11 attacks to commemorate the 21st anniversary of the tragedy.

Speaking at the ceremony, Austin highlighted the bravery and sacrifice of those who lost their lives on that fateful day, as well as the resilience and unity that emerged in the aftermath.

Pentagon Attack Remembered

On September 11, 2001, American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon, killing 184 people, including 59 passengers and crew members, and 125 Department of Defense personnel.

The attack was part of a coordinated terrorist attack on the United States that also included the destruction of the World Trade Center towers in New York City and the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Honoring Victims, Families

The ceremony at the Pentagon included a wreath-laying ceremony and the reading of the names of the victims. Family members shared their memories and paid tribute to their loved ones.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said, "We honor the memory of those we lost, and we recommit ourselves to the fight against terrorism and extremism."

Reflections on Sacrifice, Unity

The 9/11 attacks had a profound impact on the United States and the world. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Americans came together in a spirit of unity and resilience.

The attacks also led to a reassessment of national security and foreign policy, with the United States launching the War on Terror and invading Afghanistan.

Continued Remembrance

The annual commemoration of 9/11 serves as a reminder of the lives lost and the sacrifices made. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of unity, resilience, and the fight against terrorism.

By remembering the events of 9/11, we honor the victims and their families, and we recommit ourselves to the fight against extremism and violence.