America reflects 25 years after 9/11

Twenty-five years since the most devastating attack on American soil, the nation will pause on Friday to remember the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost when hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania. The tragic events of September 11 have left an indelible mark on generations of Americans who either experienced the day firsthand or grew up during its aftermath.

These events have significantly influenced US foreign policy, domestic politics, and public opinions on security matters. However, for those directly impacted by the attacks, including victims' families, first responders, and rescue workers, the anniversary is a solemn tribute to the lives lost on a crisp, clear day a quarter of a century ago, alongside the pain that has endured.

Caroline Ogonowski, now 39 years old, lost her father, John, who was the captain of American Airlines Flight 11 that crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center 47 minutes after takeoff from Boston. John's death claimed the lives of everyone on board. This year, Ogonowski had her first child and named him John, in honor of her father.

She visited her father's grave last week and plans to attend a memorial ceremony in Boston on Friday. Ogonowski expressed the profound sadness of knowing that her father will never meet his grandson, and her son will never meet his grandfather. She emphasized the importance of teaching future generations about the events of that day, the heroes who emerged, and the resilience of the United States in the face of tragedy.

In New York City, Vice President JD Vance and all four living former presidents, including President George W. Bush, who was in office during the attacks, will join Mayor Zohran Mamdani at the September 11 memorial in downtown Manhattan alongside relatives of victims.