Thousands expected in Gander, N.L., for ceremony marking 9/11 attacks 25 years ago

GANDER, N.L. — An arena in central Newfoundland is set to host a solemn ceremony to remember the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks that claimed the lives of over 3,000 people across the United States. Thirty-eight planes, carrying more than 6,500 passengers, were forced to land in Gander following the hijacking of four aircraft and their subsequent crashing into iconic landmarks such as the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Washington, and a field in Pennsylvania.

The town's residents promptly opened their hearts and homes, providing shelter, food, and clothing to the stranded passengers for several days. Gander has thus become emblematic of the compassion displayed throughout Canada during those difficult days. Today, the town will once again open its doors for a commemorative event marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks, with a gathering at the local arena and community centre.

Prominent figures such as Canada's former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, Governor General Louise Arbour, and the U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra are set to deliver speeches at the event. Hoekstra expressed his gratitude during a statement earlier this month, emphasizing that the gesture of kindness in Gander transcended the current political tensions between Canada and the United States.

Mayor Percy Farwell of Gander remains optimistic, stating that the spirit of humanity displayed in his town 25 years ago is above partisan politics.