One of the most devastating events that occured on American soil is undoubtedly the attack on the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers. This occured in New York on September 11th, 2001. After 22 years, full stories, details, and footage have been released to showcase to the public. More perspectives of  heartbreak from first responders, survivors and victim’s families are out there, waiting to be shared. 

Nation wide, 9/11 is a somber date commemorating those who passed away, acknowledging the hard work of firefighters and police, and celebrating unity. 3,000 lives were lost. 3,000 individuals with hopes, dreams, passions and love in their hearts. Sophomore Claire Powell is lucky to have parents that survived that fateful day. “Both of my parents worked in the building right next to the World Trade Center. As it happened, they had to flee and run away. You could not make a phone call because everyone was trying to call at the same time. My dad said there was really no way to get out of the city. My mom still has the shoes that she wore on that day. She bought them from the World Trade Center.”

The ongoing bustle and hustle of NYC is put on hold, to reflect on the event and passings. For more than two decades, bells have rung in an annual ceremony, pinpointing the time of each hit and crumble.  Powell adds, “So many people died. My mom is very grateful to be alive. Every year she watches the news to remember the situation and how lucky she was to come out unscathled.” 9/11 Day was established to carry out people’s legacies and transform the anniversary into an opportunity to give back to the community and victim’s families. More than 30 million Americans participate, and now this date is the country’s largest day of service. “I know more about the event and importance, thanks to my mom and dad,” Powell concludes.