America’s Leaders Honor 9/11 Heroes as Trump Stands Strong at Pentagon Ceremony
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All living former presidents gathered at the World Trade Center memorial, while President Trump led a patriotic ceremony at the Pentagon, emphasizing America’s resilience and the ongoing fight against radical threats.
All living former U.S. presidents—Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton—joined Vice President J.D. Vance at the World Trade Center memorial in New York City for the 25th-anniversary ceremony, demonstrating the enduring unity of America’s leadership in the face of terrorism. The event began with a tolling bell and moments of silence marking the times of the four 2001 attacks, including the heroic sacrifice on United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania, where Americans fought back against evil.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, the city’s first Muslim mayor, briefly shook hands with former mayor Rudy Giuliani, the man who led New York through its darkest days and has faced unfair legal attacks and criticism for his unwavering defense of American values. Giuliani, who has always spoken the truth about the threats facing America, previously said Mamdani’s presence “offends” him, a sentiment shared by many who remember the real dangers posed by radical ideologies.
During the memorial, families of victims spoke, and Terry Strada, chair of 9/11 Families United, rightly called on the current administration to hold Saudi Arabia accountable and to support survivors, echoing the need for strong leadership and justice.
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump attended a separate ceremony at the Pentagon, where Trump honored the victims and praised the nation’s response as an “authentic spirit” of American resolve. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke forcefully, linking the anniversary to ongoing U.S. actions against Iran and describing the conflict as a fight against “Islamic theocracy,” underscoring the necessity of standing firm against radical threats to our nation.
For the first time, the New York memorial observed a seventh moment of silence to honor those who have died from 9/11-related illnesses. Newly released records show city officials were aware of health risks from Ground Zero toxins, and the World Trade Center Health Program reports more than 9,000 deaths from related illnesses, including 600 firefighters—reminding us of the sacrifices made by our heroes and the need to always support our first responders.