September 11, 2001, marks the deadliest day in the United States of America. The whole world wept with the families of almost 3000 people killed in what US history considered as the worst terrorist attacks.
Four US passenger airliners were hijacked by 19 militants associated with the al Qaeda terrorist group headed by Osama bin Laden. A plane loaded with 20,000 gallons of jet fuel was hijacked and crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center in New York City, hitting the 80th floor of the 110-story skyscraper, leaving hundreds of casualty, and trapping all the other people in the upper floors. And just 18 minutes after the first plane hit, the second plane eventually came out of nowhere and hit the south tower near the 60th floor. The south tower of the World Trade Center eventually collapsed, resulting so much horror and devastation.
As everyone watched the unbelievable disaster happening in New York, the third plane circled over downtown Washington, D.C., eventually crashing into the west side of the Pentagon military headquarters killing 125 military personnel and civilians, along with all 64 people aboard the airliner.
Meanwhile, the fourth plane was hijacked about 40 minutes after leaving Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. This supposed attack on the US Capitol was crashed into the Pennsylvania countryside after passengers attempted to fight the hijackers. A total of 2,977 people were killed in what is now known as the 9/11 attacks.
This is not just a number. This figure includes hundreds of firefighters, paramedics, and police officers who sacrificially gave up their lives in their attempt to save as many lives as they can. They are definitely heroes of 9/11. This figure includes fathers, mothers, and even children who meant the world to their loving family. This is not just a number but this is the number of innocent people who lose their lives in the 9/11 attacks.
This tribute will surely remind us that despite this devastating event taking place in history, our God is still gracious, He is still merciful, and above all, He is sovereign. The heart touching song ‘Amazing Grace’ will remind us again that there is hope despite the most devastating events in our lives.