On September 11, 2001, coordinated attacks were carried out against the Twin Towers of downtown Manhattan’s World Trade Center and the Pentagon in Washington D.C. Terrorists aboard American Airlines Flight 11, United Airlines Flight 175, American Airlines Flight 77, and United Airlines Flight 93 are responsible for taking the lives of nearly 3,000 people on that seemingly normal Tuesday morning.
At 8:46 a.m., the first plane, Flight 11, struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Flight 175 hit the Trade Center’s South Tower at 9:03. The hijackers aboard Flight 77 crashed the plane into the Pentagon at 9:37, and minutes later, Flight 93 crashed into a Pennsylvania field.
As these horrific events unfolded, firefighters, police, medical personnel, military members and civilians on scene worked tirelessly to save others. 2,977 people were lost and over 6,000 were injured. That number continues to rise as many suffer from illness related to the events.
This year is the 19th anniversary of the tragic event that stole innocent lives and left an everlasting impact on our nation. Most of us can still recall where they were and what they were doing when the news hit. We remember the images, the sounds, and the loved ones that were lost. It’s an event that will never be forgotten—that can’t be forgotten.
This Friday at 8:46AM—corresponding with the time of the first attack—we will blow the shipyard whistle in the Groton and Quonset Point shipyards. Following the whistle, Taps and the National Anthem will be played. (This will be in place of the usual 8AM playing of the National Anthem).
In honor of the fallen and in dedication to those who selflessly risked their lives, please take this time to be silent and to REMEMBER. The dust and debris from that day may be gone, but the pain will forever live in our hearts.
We will always honor the heroes of 9/11. We will never forget.
