WASHINGTON – As the nation prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, President Donald Trump is set to attend a ceremony at the Pentagon, honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost that fateful day. The attacks, orchestrated by al-Qaida militants who hijacked four planes, resulted in catastrophic consequences that fundamentally altered American foreign policy and national security strategies.
This year marks Trump’s second consecutive year attending the Pentagon ceremony. The president, originally from New York, last participated in the Ground Zero observance in 2024. His presence at the Pentagon highlights the significance of this day in American history and the enduring impact of the attacks on the nation.
Vice President JD Vance will attend the New York observance alongside former presidents, while other administration officials will be present at the ceremony in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Notably, Vance had planned to be in New York for last year’s anniversary but opted to fly to Salt Lake City to support the family of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was tragically assassinated.
During the previous year’s commemoration at the Pentagon, Trump delivered poignant remarks that recounted moments from the day of the attacks, including heart-wrenching snippets of conversations from passengers aboard the hijacked aircraft. These reflections serve as a reminder of the personal stories intertwined with this national tragedy.
At a recent event held at the Ellipse near the White House, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to “never forget” the victims of September 11. He articulated the profound historical significance of the attacks, describing them as a pivotal moment that divides time into what came before and after.
This event was organized by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and featured a striking 21-foot steel beam, weighing nearly 17,000 pounds, which was recovered from the South Tower of the World Trade Center. This beam has traveled across the country as part of the Steel Across America tour, symbolizing resilience and remembrance. It will also be part of a procession in New York, retracing the steps of fallen firefighter Stephen Siller.
On Wednesday, Trump issued a proclamation designating Friday as “Patriot Day 2026.” In this proclamation, he recounted the harrowing events of that day in 2001 when “the peace of our Nation was shattered.” He emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring national security, highlighting the strength and capability of the U.S. military.
The Republican midterms convention on Thursday evening also marked the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks. The event featured families of victims on stage in Dallas, firefighters in uniform, and a moving performance of “Ave Maria.” The names of the victims were displayed on a screen, accompanied by the solemn ringing of a bell to honor the memory of the firefighters who lost their lives that day.
