“The World Trade Center has been attacked!” Those of us old enough remember where we were when we heard those words. 

Twenty years have now passed since the deadliest terrorist attack on American soil. 

2,976 people were killed when 19 Islamist hijackers committed murder-suicide by flying passenger planes into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, while another crashed in a Pennsylvania field. More than 6,000 others were injured. Among the fallen were many first-responders who sacrificed their own lives trying to rescue those trapped and injured. 

Since that horrific day, our world has grown no less dangerous and the threats we face multiply by the year. As we remember and honor the victims of 9/11 and their families, we must look ahead with vigilance as an evolving array of enemies threaten our national security, our freedom, and our American way of life. Your voice and values can make a difference!

Your Steps to Make a Difference:

LEARN: Read Heritage President Kay C. James article, Reflecting on 9/11: Taliban are stronger than they were in 2001, and post it on one or more of your social media accounts using the hashtag #September11 and #Afghanistan. If you do not use social media, email the article to 5 of your friends.

SHARE: Listen to the “Heritage Explains” podcast episode, September 11, 2001—It's Been 20 Years. After listening, share with a friend and encourage them to participate in 9/11 remembrance activities this week.

ACT: With your family or friends, attend a ceremony, vigil, or service honoring those who lost their lives in the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

EXTRA CREDIT: Watch the Heritage Event, The 20th Anniversary of 9/11: DHS Has Its Eye Off the Ball.

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