摘要：On the morning of September 11, 2001, the United States faced a devastating attack that changed the nation forever. Nineteen terro

On the morning of September 11, 2001, the United States faced a devastating attack that changed the nation forever. Nineteen terrorists hijacked four passenger planes. Two of the planes were flown into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing the skyscrapers to burn and collapse. A third plane struck the Pentagon, the headquarters of the U.S. military, near Washington, D.C. The fourth plane, United Flight 93, was heading toward another target in Washington, but the passengers on board fought the hijackers. The plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania, saving countless lives.

Nearly 3,000 people were killed on that day, and thousands more were injured. The victims included workers in the buildings, travelers on the airplanes, and the brave first responders—firefighters, police officers, and emergency workers—who rushed to help others. In addition to the terrible loss of life, the attacks left behind enormous destruction and lasting grief for families and communities across the country.

In the days after the attacks, Americans came together in an outpouring of unity and compassion. Blood donations increased, neighbors helped each other, and communities held candlelight vigils. Leaders from around the world expressed their support, and many countries joined in fighting terrorism. September 11 deeply influenced U.S. history, not only leading to changes in airport security and foreign policy, but also reminding citizens of the value of resilience and solidarity in difficult times.

To honor the victims, memorials have been created at the sites of the attacks. In New York City, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum stand where the Twin Towers once rose. Visitors can see two reflecting pools with the names of the victims carved into bronze. At the Pentagon, a memorial with benches honors those who lost their lives, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, a memorial wall and field plaza remember the passengers of Flight 93. These sites serve as places for reflection, mourning, and education, especially for younger generations who did not experience the attacks directly.

In 2009, the U.S. Congress officially designated September 11 as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. On this day, Americans are encouraged not only to remember the lives lost but also to honor their memory through acts of service. People volunteer at food banks, donate blood, clean parks, and help neighbors. This tradition transforms grief into positive action and reflects the spirit of unity that followed the tragedy.

Today, September 11 is observed both as a somber day of remembrance and as a moment to reflect on shared values of courage, compassion, and resilience. Schools, workplaces, and communities often hold ceremonies and moments of silence. The day reminds people of the bravery of first responders, the strength of families who rebuilt their lives, and the importance of kindness in difficult times.

Even though more than two decades have passed, the memory of September 11 remains powerful. It is not only a reminder of loss but also a lesson about human strength and solidarity. By remembering, people ensure that the stories of the victims and the courage of the helpers are never forgotten. At the same time, the day challenges everyone to take action—big or small—in service to others, building hope and peace for the future.

来源：中国房地产数据研究院一点号