US marks 25 years since the Sept. 11 attacks, 'moments that divide time'

In a few moments, the United States will mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, a day that forever changed the nation's landscape. On that fateful morning in 2001, al-Qaida extremists hijacked four commercial airplanes, crashing them into iconic American landmarks - the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and a field in Pennsylvania. The attacks left nearly 3,000 people dead and sent shockwaves across the globe, marking a pivotal moment in history.

The anniversary of the 9/11 attacks will be observed through various memorial rituals, including wreath-laying, flag-flying, moments of silence, vigils, and readings of victims' names. Many Americans remember this day as the most historic event of their lifetime, according to a new poll. For others, it serves as a time for private reflection or educational purposes, discussing the consequences of the attacks that unfolded in a single morning.

For Police Officer Casey Kloepfer, the anniversary holds special significance. His father, Officer Ronald Kloepfer, died on the day of the attacks while working at the World Trade Center. Now 4 years old, Casey grew up hearing stories about his father's dedication to helping others and his police work. As he prepares to join the New York Police Department, he says he wants to honor his father's legacy and be the best officer he can be.

President Donald Trump plans to attend the Pentagon's observance ceremony, while Vice President Kamala Harris will be present at the National September 11 Memorial in New York. The tragic events of 9/11 have led to significant changes in U.S. society and policy. The country embarked on a global war on terror, invading Iraq and Afghanistan, and establishing detention centers and harsh interrogation methods.

The attacks also led to the death of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden in 2011 and the ongoing pursuit of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed.

The 9/11 attacks have had far-reaching effects on American life, including changes in air travel, new federal surveillance powers, and banking regulations. The Department of Homeland Security, state anti-terrorism laws, and billions of dollars in counterterrorism funding are all post-9/11 creations. The attacks also prompted a culture of individual vigilance, encapsulated by the phrase "if you see something, say something."

However, the anniversary of 9/11 has also ignited debates about prejudice and hate crimes against Muslims in the United States. Despite the national unity that followed the attacks, some Muslim Americans, like New York City's first Muslim mayor Zohran Mamdani, have faced criticism for attending the ceremony at Ground Zero. Mamdani, a Democrat, insists that his attendance is focused on honoring the victims' families, first responders, and New Yorkers who came together in the aftermath of the attacks.