By Ruth Scovill, For Iron County Today
For anyone old enough to remember, the events of September 11, 2001 will be forever burned into your memory. Every channel on TV covered an unbelievable series of events as 19 terrorists hijacked four commercial airline flights. One plane was forced to fly into the North tower of the World Trade Center.
Fifteen minutes later, another commercial plane crashed into the South Tower. All those aboard the planes died along with thousands within the towers. A total of 343 firefighters and paramedics responding to the incidents were reported to have died of injuries suffered while responding to the incidents. It is reported that an equal number of rescuers have since died of injuries suffered during that day. All together, a total of 2,606 people were believed to have died at the World Trade Centers, along with many injuries.
But this was not all. A third plane was forced to crash into the Pentagon, killing 125 military personnel at the Pentagon along with those on the plane. In the meantime, a few brave passengers and crew members on the fourth plane overwhelmed the hijackers, forcing the plane to crash into a field before reaching its unknown intended target, but killing the passengers and crew on board. On the four planes, 246 passengers and crew members died. The total deaths on 9/11/2001 are believed to be about 3000 people, with many later deaths attributable to injuries suffered that day.
Instead of rebuilding the towers, a memorial was created with falling water draining into the center of the foundations where the towers once stood. A museum at the site was also created to commemorate those who died.
President George W. Bush first declared 9/11 as a day of remembrance with President Obama later signing a bill declaring September 11 a day of remembrance and service. This made 9/11 the second national day of service, joining Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
A city wide food drive was conducted on Saturday September 7th to commemorate this day. If you have not already done so, please plan something to commemorate this important holiday. While you are thinking about it, mark your calendars for Martin Luther King’s Day, and September 11 next year to participate in these important service days. It’s never too late to serve your community.