The Impact of 9-11

Why does the day of September 11, 2001 matter to all United States citizens? Why is it so important? September 11, 2001 marks the day in US history when we stood together as one nation since Pearl Harbor was attacked 60 years earlier. The terrorist group Al Qaeda tried to crush the American spirit that tragic day, however, they did the opposite. It was amazing how so many people helped one another through these hard time and how tragic so many people perished. Many peoples lives were changed forever. Family, friends and loved ones were in the World Trade Centers, in the Pentagon, and on United Airlines Flight 93, American Airlines Flight 11, United Airlines Flight 175, and American Airlines Flight 77.

Security is also a main subject that has been impacted due to 9/11. The airports are now bombarded with security guards and metal detectors. Passengers who want to get on their plane must go through a thorough check, which includes taking off their shoes. On planes, passengers cannot bring carry on liquids; such as water, or hand sanitizers, for fear that it could be dangerous. At major national buildings the security has also increased. In Washington D.C., there is not a place for a tourist to go without first going through security. These procedures are put together for citizens so that we may be safe.

September 11 has given the United States a healthy dose of fear, and with that, the knowledge that our country can be attacked at any moment. But it has made us stronger. A lot of heroes took charge that day in order to save lives. Co-workers at the World Trade Center and at the Pentagon helped their fellow workers to escape and be safe. Firefighters bravely tried to tend to the growing flames caused by the crashed airplanes. The passengers of United Airlines Flight 93 sacrificed their own lives in order to save countless numbers of lives. "Officials believe that the intended target was the White House or Capitol building" says Jennifer Silate in her book "Terrorist Attack". Imagine how lost our country would be if our Nation didn't have its Capitol building.

So yes, September 11, 2001 had a huge impact in the lives of American citizens everywhere, even if they weren't directly involved in the attacks. For always, the United States will remember that day.