U.S. leaders gather for 25th-anniversary 9/11 ceremonies
President Trump, senior officials and families of victims attended memorial events at the Pentagon, Ground Zero and Shanksville as the nation marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
President Donald Trump spoke at a Pentagon ceremony on Friday, saying the attacks highlighted the "terrible power of hate" but that the United States has responded with a stronger American spirit. He pledged that the nation will "never, ever forget" the victims and vowed to protect the country more vigorously.
Former national security adviser Condoleezza Rice, speaking at the same event, expressed personal remorse for the pain endured by families and thanked the armed forces and intelligence community for preventing further attacks.
Senator Mitch McConnell issued a statement urging prayers for those who continue to bear the "heaviest burdens" of the tragedy.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine highlighted the courage of first responders, the passengers of Flight 93 and the service members who responded in the aftermath.
A moment of silence was observed at the times the hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Flight 77. Names of the 2,977 victims were read at Ground Zero, where Vice President JD Vance, former presidents and other dignitaries were present.
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum opened a new exhibition, "In Their Honor: 25 Years of 9/11 Inspired Service," showcasing how the attacks motivated many Americans to serve their communities and country.
Family members shared personal reflections, including widow Terry Strada, who called for accountability regarding Saudi Arabia, and Jen Nilsen, who said the grief remains unchanged after 25 years.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin reiterated that the "American spirit endured and rose to the challenge" on that day, praising the bravery of responders and passengers.
Separate ceremonies were held in New York City and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, with officials from the White House, former presidents and local leaders attending.