We will never forget. This is a vow often stated in reference to Sept.11th-a a day that forever changed our country. This Saturday is Patriot Day, marking the 20th anniversary of the deadliest terrorist attack in the history of the United States. On Saturday, we remember and honor the heroes we lost that day 20 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001.
Many of you may remember what you were doing on Sept. 11, 2001. It’s hard to forget the day a group of terrorists hijacked four planes to fly them into the Pentagon in Washington D.C. and each of the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York. The fourth plane crashed in a field in Shanksville, Pa., after the plane’s passengers fought the hijackers.
The impact of this attack was devastating. Almost 3,000 lives were lost and 6,000 were injured. Among the dead were more than 400 first responders who sacrificed their lives trying to rescue victims.
IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
2,977 lives lost on 9/11
184 people killed when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon
343 New York City firefighters perished on 9/11
23 NYPD officers lost their lives on 9/11
37 Port Authority of New York and New Jersey police officers killed on 9/11
60 percent of 9/11 victims’remains have been identified
A month after the attacks, a resolution to make Sept.11 a National Day of Mourning was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, proclaiming Sept.11,2002, as the first Patriot Day. Every year on Patriot Day, U.S. flags are lowered to half-staff. We invite all our team members to join a nationwide moment of silence at 8:46AM EDT this Saturday. That’s the time the first plane crashed into one of the Twin Towers.
Also known as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, Patriot Day is a difficult day for many, with some solace found in the memorial tributes to those who lost their lives, and through support groups dedicated to spreading kindness and comfort to families today.
Sept.11, 2001, changed a generation of Americans and the world. As profound as this loss was, it did not break the soul of our nation. It made us stronger, fortified us with pride and patriotism and created a spirit of service in the hearts of a new generation.
This Saturday, take a moment to commemorate those who we lost and give thanks to the brave first responders who put their lives on the line.
Many areas throughout Florida will have events like these for Central Florida. Search your local area for listings.
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