On Friday, September 11, 2026, the Pentagon hosted a solemn ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks that forever changed the nation. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed the crowd, emphasizing the country’s resilience and the enduring spirit of service that followed the tragedy.
Federal Leaders Highlight Unity
“September 11, 2001, was one of the darkest days in American history, but evil did not get the last word. It never has and never will,” Hegseth said, underscoring the belief that the nation’s response was a testament to its enduring faith and resolve.
He noted that the attacks inspired millions of Americans to step forward, saying, “It changed America, not as the cowards had hoped, but their attacks inspired millions of Americans to step forward instead and say, ‘send me.’”
Faith Leaders Recall September 12
Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, chaplain of the New York Fire Department, spoke of the day after the attacks, describing it as a moment when “people of different faiths, races, and backgrounds stood together because, for a moment, we understood what matters most. We are human beings first.” He urged listeners to remember the dignity of every human being as a bulwark against hatred.
Community Service and Military Enlistments
The ceremony highlighted how the tragedy spurred a surge in military enlistments and first‑responder recruitment. Thousands joined the armed forces or became volunteers in emergency services, a trend that continues to shape the nation’s defense and disaster‑response capabilities.
Frank Siller, CEO of Tunnel to Towers, shared his personal connection: his brother, Stephen Siller, a New York firefighter, gave his life on that day. In honor of his brother’s sacrifice, Frank’s organization has provided over 2,000 mortgage‑free homes and helped more than 27,500 homeless veterans find stable housing.
Looking Forward
Siller urged young people to understand the true cost of liberty, stating, “Freedom is not free, and a lot of people pay a big sacrifice for that. We have got to teach them about these families.” The message resonated with attendees, many of whom are parents and grandparents passing the story of September 11 to the next generation.
Local community groups, veterans’ organizations, and faith congregations continue to coordinate service projects, reinforcing the belief that collective action rooted in shared values can overcome adversity.
National Reflection
Across the country, similar ceremonies were held at the World Trade Center, the Flight 93 National Memorial and numerous state capitols. The unified chorus of “God bless America” echoed in both Washington, D.C., and small towns, reminding citizens that the nation’s strength lies in its shared commitment to faith, family, and freedom.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
