9/11 Remembrance Day: What Happened?

Every year, people around the world observe days of remembrance to honour those who have lost their lives in tragic events. One of these is 9/11 Remembrance Day, held on September 11 to remember the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of 2001. In 2026, the 25th anniversary of 9/11 will give a new generation an opportunity to learn what happened, honour those who died and reflect on the courage, kindness and compassion shown in the aftermath.

What happened on 9/11 – September 11, 2001?

On the morning of September 11, 19 terrorists associated with al-Qaeda hijacked four commercial aeroplanes. Two were flown into the North and South Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, while a third struck the Pentagon, the US Department of Defence headquarters near Washington, DC.

Passengers and crew members on the fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, fought back. The plane crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, before reaching its intended target.

The attacks killed 2,977 people, including passengers, workers, firefighters, police officers and other first responders from 90 countries. The tragedy changed the United States and had lasting effects around the world.

What happened to the Twin Towers?

The Twin Towers were among New York City’s most recognisable buildings. After the planes struck, huge fires spread through both towers. Severe damage from the impacts and fires eventually caused them to collapse. Key moments included:

8:46 am: American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower.
9:03 am: United Airlines Flight 175 struck the South Tower.
9:37 am: American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon.
9:59 am: The South Tower collapsed.
10:03 am: Flight 93 crashed near Shanksville.
10:28 am: The North Tower collapsed.

Thousands of firefighters, police officers, medical workers, volunteers and other emergency personnel joined one of New York City’s largest rescue and recovery efforts.

Who is remembered on 9/11?

The victims included people working in the World Trade Center, passengers and crew members on the four planes, people at the Pentagon and emergency responders trying to save others. Among those killed were 441 first responders, including firefighters, police officers and emergency medical workers—the greatest loss of emergency responders in a single day in American history.

Many survivors and people who worked at the sites later developed serious health problems after exposure to dust and other substances. Remembrance therefore honours not only those who died, but also survivors, rescue workers, recovery workers and others affected in the years that followed.

What is the 9/11 Memorial?

The 9/11 Memorial stands at the former World Trade Center site in New York City. Its two reflecting pools sit in the footprints of the Twin Towers, with the names of those killed in the 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing inscribed around them.

The site also includes the Survivor Tree, a Callery pear tree that was badly damaged but rescued, cared for and returned to the Memorial. It now symbolises survival, recovery and hope.

What happens on 9/11 each year?

In 2026, the 25th anniversary ceremony will take place on September 11. Families of victims will gather at the Memorial plaza to read the names of those killed in the 2001 attacks and the 1993 bombing. Seven moments of silence will remember the attacks, the collapse of the towers and people who later died from 9/11-related health effects.

Another annual tradition is the Tribute in Light, when two powerful beams shine into the night sky as a reminder of the Twin Towers and a tribute to those killed.

Remembering with respect

Because 9/11 caused the loss of thousands of lives and lasting pain for many families, it should be discussed respectfully. For young people, remembrance can be a way to ask questions, understand history and reflect on peace, courage, kindness and respect for human life.