September 11, 2001, Eight Years Later the Struggle for Justice Still Goes On

The lives of every American was changed eight years ago when al Qaeda terrorists hijacked airplanes to crash them into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon -- twin symbols of America's financial and military might. Another hijacked plane, intended for the White House or the Capitol, crashed in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, due to the actions of those brave and selfless passengers who fought the hijackers. I often reminisce on the tragic events of that day and I shudder at the thought of such violence visiting our cities again.

New York will honor the 2,751 people who lost their lives after American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the north and south towers of the World Trade Center. President Obama, the first lady and White House staff will observe a moment of silence on the South Lawn at 8:46 a.m., the moment Flight 11 hit the north tower.

The president will then go to the Pentagon, where he will make remarks and participate in a wreath-laying ceremony for the 184 victims killed when American Airlines Flight 77 struck the building's west wall.