BY: Molly Gray
Today marks the 18th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. As we go throughout our day, we will probably act as if it is any other day of school or work. It will seem like a normal day to us. However, it is not a normal day for some people-it is a day of sorrow. Therefore, we must remember what happened on this day 18 years ago.
It is possible that many of us do not remember when this day happened. I was four years old in 2001, and some of you may not have even been born. So, do we really know or remember why this day needs to be remembered?
On September 11, 2001, four airplanes were hijacked by terrorists. Two were headed to New York City, one was headed to the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and the last one was headed to an unknown location. That morning, the two New York planes crashed into The World Trade Center’s North and South Towers. The Pentagon was eventually hit by the third plane. The fourth plane crashed after passengers tried to take back the plane. According to CNN.com, 2,977 people were killed. Age did not matter. Race did not matter. Gender did not matter. Status did not matter. Al Qadea only had one thing in mind: attacking the United States. They wanted to make a statement.
Their statement caused people to lose hope. Some people lost family and friends. Everyone was scared. No one knew what would happen next. These attacks devastated the United States. It was everyone’s worst nightmare come to life.
As you sit in class or work, think about the people who lost their lives. Think about the people who lost loved ones, some of which have not been positively identified. Think about what it would have been like to sit in your living room and watch as the towers fell. As you think of these things, remember that this is no ordinary day. This is a day that needs to be remembered and respected. May we all take a moment of silence in remembrance. Never forget 9/11.
