Though we have had a few dark days throughout our country’s history, none stick out quite like September 11, 2001. On 9/11, two planes crashed into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, which killed nearly 3,000 people.
September 11 is never an easy day to get through, and although a lot of time has passed, there are still families who never got closure in the loss of their loved ones. As this date on the calendar approaches, we wanted to take the opportunity to remember those we have lost and suggest ways that we can all honor those who died and the first responders who bravely rescued and helped on that treacherous day.
WAYS YOU CAN REMEMBER 9/11
If you are able, visiting New York City on September 11 can also make for an unforgettable experience. Not only can you visit the 9/11 memorial, but you will also get a chance to see the Tribute in Light, which illuminates the New York City skyline as a symbol of the twin towers. The Memorial itself is free of charge and open to the public. The names of every person who died in the terrorist attacks of February 26, 1993, and September 11, 2001, are inscribed in bronze around the twin memorial pools. You can also tour the museum, which tells the story of the day and has an ever-growing permanent collection of artifacts, stories, videos, and other materials that help shed light on the experiences of those who survived and died tragically on September 11.
For those who won’t be able to make it to New York City, one of the best and easiest ways to remember and honor the loss of 9/11 is to fly your flag at half-mast. If you have a flag hanging up outside your house, adjust it to half-staff. If you don’t have a flag pole with an American flag, consider buying one to commemorate the occasion.
Another wonderful way to commemorate 9/11 at home is to donate blood to your local American Red Cross. Over 6,000 people were injured on September 11, 2001, and blood donations helped save some of their lives.
September 11th is also known as a National Day of Service and Remembrance and you can choose to take the day off to volunteer through one of the many participating nonprofits. Some of these opportunities include delivering a meal to someone in need, helping at a food bank, or help build a house with Habitat for Humanity.
