Ceremonies across the United States solemnly recognize the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. People gather in New York and at the Pentagon to remember the lives lost when planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Ahead of a memorial service at the National September 11 Memorial in New York, a woman places flowers at the site. Dignitaries present include former U.S. President Joe Biden, former President George W. Bush, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and Vice President Vance.

In Arlington, Virginia, an American flag unfurls along the Pentagon as military personnel and first responders honor the fallen. At the annual Austin Fire Department Memorial Stair Climb, firefighters ascend to match the height of the World Trade Center, in remembrance of their fellow firefighters who died on 9/11.

In St. Louis, the ‘Flags of Valor’ installation displays more than 7,600 flags, honoring service members, first responders, and civilians. Darlene and David Johnson from Florissant, Missouri, view the installation at Art Hill in Forest Park. Suzi Mahe, volunteering from University City, Missouri, adjusts a portrait honoring Army Cpl. Jonathan Schiller.

People also gather in Chicago, where the Fire Department holds a ceremony at Navy Pier. In Shanksville, Pennsylvania, visitors explore the Flight 93 National Memorial. This site marks where United Airlines Flight 93 crashed as passengers and crew attempted to regain control.

The annual remembrance underscores the profound impact of the September 11 attacks and brings together communities to honor those who died and those who continue to serve in their memory.

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