Rhode Island Commemorates 24th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks

Providence, Rhode Island

Today marks the 24th anniversary of the September 11th terror attacks that took the lives of nearly 3,000 people, including nine residents from Rhode Island and 206 from Massachusetts. Various ceremonies are taking place across Rhode Island to honor the victims and the heroes of that tragic day.

The attacks began when Al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four airplanes. Two planes were flown into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, one struck the Pentagon, and the fourth crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The catastrophic events of that day have left a lasting impact on the nation and its residents.

In New York City, the annual memorial ceremony will feature moments of silence to mark the timestamps of the attacks and the recently added 39 names on the New York City Fire Department’s memorial wall for first responders who died from illnesses linked to recovery efforts after the attacks. As part of the day’s tribute, the Tribute in Light will illuminate the skyline, and the names of all victims will be read aloud.

President Donald Trump is set to attend a memorial service at the Pentagon today before heading to a New York Yankees game later in the evening.

Rhode Island Commemoration Events

In Rhode Island, several ceremonies are scheduled throughout the day. Governor Dan McKee will begin the commemorations with a speech at the Rhode Island State Police headquarters in North Scituate at 8:30 AM. Simultaneously, another ceremony will take place at North Kingstown’s Town Beach.

At 9:00 AM, the Central Falls Fire Department will dedicate a plaque at their headquarters to honor first responders. A separate ceremony will be held at the Veterans Cemetery in Exeter at the same time. In Warwick, a moment of silence will be observed at 10:28 AM, marking the actual time of the North Tower’s collapse.

The Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery will host the 13th annual 9/11 Remembrance ceremony from 9 to 11 AM, featuring prayers, performances, and readings of the names of deceased Rhode Islanders. This event will also include the traditional “Ringing of the Four Fives,” a tribute marked by firefighters to honor those who have died in the line of duty.

East Providence will hold its observance at City Hall Plaza at 10:00 AM, where remarks will be made by Governor Dan McKee, Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos, Mayor Bob DaSilva, and other city officials.

ABC6 will provide coverage of the various commemorative events occurring throughout Rhode Island today, ensuring that the memory of the lives lost and the heroic efforts of many will not be forgotten.