Today marks 25 years since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks—a day that forever changed our nation and the lives of millions of Americans.
Nearly 3,000 people were killed that morning when hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon outside Washington, D.C., while passengers and crew aboard United Airlines Flight 93 fought back before the plane crashed in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Twenty-five years later, we remember them.
We remember the innocent lives lost. We remember the firefighters, police officers, paramedics and other first responders who ran toward danger when others were trying to escape. We remember the passengers and crew of Flight 93 whose courage prevented an even greater tragedy. And we remember the countless families whose lives were forever changed.
For those who lived through September 11, the memories can still feel remarkably vivid—the images on television, the uncertainty of those first hours and the realization that life in America had changed.
But September 11 is also remembered for what happened afterward.
Across the country, communities came together. Neighbors helped neighbors. American flags appeared on homes and businesses. People lined up to donate blood, volunteered their time and looked for ways to help strangers they had never met.
That spirit of service continues today.
Here in Cobb County, residents have an opportunity to turn remembrance into action through the 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance at Marietta National Cemetery on Saturday, September 12. Volunteers will gather to clean and restore veterans’ headstones and beautify the cemetery grounds as part of a nationwide effort honoring September 11 through service.
Perhaps one of the most important responsibilities we have 25 years later is making sure September 11 is not simply another chapter in a history book.
An entire generation has now grown up without a personal memory of that day. Sharing the stories of those who were lost, the bravery displayed by ordinary Americans and the unity that followed helps ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten.
On this 25th anniversary, EAST COBBER joins our community and our nation in remembering the lives lost, honoring the heroes who answered the call and recognizing the first responders and military members who have served our country in the years since.
We remember September 11, 2001. We honor those we lost. And we will never forget. Several events will be held throughout the community to honor and remember those who lost their lives in the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Residents are invited to join in remembrance and reflection at these events Friday, Sept. 11:• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park will hold a memorial service at 7:55 a.m. The Field of Flags display at the park will remain up until Sept. 19.• Smyrna Public Safety Foundation 9/11 Commemoration. A public ceremony will begin at 8 a.m. at Smyrna City Hall. At 9:05 a.m., local first responders will take part in a memorial run through downtown Smyrna. A nearby flag display will remain in place through Sunday, Sept. 13.• Austell 9/11 Commemoration program, 8:15 a.m. at the Threadmill Complex, 5000 Austell-Powder Springs Road, Austell.We will never forget.
