Remembering 9/11 – 25 Years Later

Published on August 31, 2026

by: Larisa Svechin, Mayor

On September 11, 2001, our nation experienced a tragedy that forever changed the course of history. On that morning, nearly 3,000 innocent men, women, and children lost their lives in a series of coordinated terrorist attacks. Two planes struck the World Trade Center in New York City, a third hit the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a fourth crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after courageous passengers fought to prevent the hijackers from reaching their intended target. Among those we lost were hundreds of first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice while rushing toward danger to save others.

As we mark the 25th anniversary, we gather not only to mourn the lives that were lost, but to honor their memory and reaffirm our commitment to never forget. The City will be hosting a remembrance ceremony outside of the Government Center on Friday, September 11 at 8:30 a.m. featuring guest speakers, a moment of silence, and the lowering of the flag to half-staff as we pay tribute to the victims and to the countless individuals whose courage and compassion helped our nation through its darkest hours.

Twenty-five years may have passed, but time cannot diminish the significance of that day or the memories of those we lost. It is our responsibility to ensure that future generations understand what happened, remember the lives that were taken, and recognize the extraordinary courage demonstrated by so many in the aftermath.

May we continue to honor the victims, pay tribute to the heroes, and carry their memory forward. And may we always remember that even in our darkest moments, we have the ability to come together, lift one another up, and choose hope over fear.

Contact Mayor Larisa Svechin at mayor@sibfl.net or call 305.792.1753.