The Trump administration consistently observed the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with solemnity, reflecting a theme of Remembrance and Resolve. Throughout his presidency, Donald Trump, along with First Lady Melania Trump and other key officials, participated in ceremonies, issued presidential proclamations, and called for national unity. These observances, held at significant memorial sites, were dedicated to honoring the victims, first responders, and military personnel affected by the tragic events.
Key Participants
The annual 9/11 commemorations involved a wide array of key figures at both the national and local levels. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump consistently led the observances, often joined by Vice President Mike Pence. Members of Congress, including senators and representatives, also participated in the memorial events. Governors and local officials played a crucial role in ceremonies held at memorial sites within their respective states. Military leaders were present to honor the service members affected by the attacks and the subsequent military actions. Central to these events were the 9/11 victims’ families and first responders, whose presence underscored the personal and enduring impact of the tragedy.
Commemorative Events and Locations
The Trump administration focused its 9/11 commemorations on several key locations that hold significant meaning in the context of the attacks. President Trump and his administration consistently participated in commemorative events at the Pentagon Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, a site honoring the 184 people killed when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the building. Another focal point was the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, which commemorates the passengers and crew who fought back against the hijackers, preventing the plane from reaching its intended target. Moments of silence were also observed at the White House, marking the times when the planes struck their targets on September 11, 2001.
Specific Annual Observances
Each year of the Trump administration saw specific events and remarks that highlighted different aspects of the 9/11 tragedy and its aftermath.
2017: 16th Anniversary
On the 16th anniversary in 2017, President Trump and the First Lady observed a moment of silence at the White House before attending a ceremony at the Pentagon. According to the White House archives, President Trump stated that “the living, breathing soul of America wept with grief” for each life lost, vowing that the U.S. would never forget the attacks. He also issued a proclamation designating September 11, 2017, as Patriot Day, calling upon all departments and agencies to display the flag at half-staff and encouraging community service, as noted in the official proclamation released by the White House.
2018: 17th Anniversary
For the 17th anniversary in 2018, President Trump and the First Lady traveled to Shanksville, Pennsylvania, to honor the “band of brave patriots” aboard Flight 93. As reported by the Department of Defense News, he praised the passengers and crew who resisted hijackers, declaring the field “a monument to American defiance” and a message that America would “never, ever submit to tyranny.” Vice President Mike Pence represented the administration at the Pentagon observance that year.
2019: 18th Anniversary
In 2019, on the 18th anniversary, President Trump attended the ceremony at the Pentagon Memorial. During his remarks, he honored the 184 people murdered there and noted the full reauthorization of the Victims Compensation Fund earlier that year, ensuring billions of dollars for survivors and families. He also referenced ongoing military actions in Afghanistan, stating the U.S. was hitting the Taliban “harder than ever before” and had called off peace talks after an attack that killed an American soldier, according to reporting by Al Jazeera.
2020: 19th Anniversary
The 19th anniversary in 2020 saw President Trump once again at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. He paid tribute to the 40 brave individuals, emphasizing that “the heroes of Flight 93 are an everlasting reminder that no matter the danger, no matter the threat, no matter the odds, America will always rise up, stand tall, and fight back.” Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the observances included physically distanced audiences. Notably, on this day, then-presidential candidate Joe Biden also attended a New York memorial, with both candidates avoiding crossing paths, as noted by CBC News.
The Significance of 9/11 Commemorations
The consistent commemorations during the Trump administration served several crucial purposes. First and foremost, they honored the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost in the attacks, ensuring that their memory was preserved in the national consciousness. These events also served to remember the horrific details of the attacks themselves, acknowledging the profound impact they had on the nation. Furthermore, the commemorations recognized the bravery and sacrifice of victims, first responders, and military members who acted heroically in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Finally, they reaffirmed the nation’s resilience and unwavering commitment to fighting terrorism, both at home and abroad.
Impact and Legacy
The Trump administration’s participation in annual 9/11 commemorations reinforced the national tradition of remembering the attacks and their aftermath. These events provided a platform for the President to address the nation on themes of patriotism, national security, and unity in the face of adversity. The reauthorization of the Victims Compensation Fund in 2019, as highlighted by the Department of Justice, provided crucial financial and medical support to those affected by the attacks, demonstrating a tangible commitment to aiding survivors and their families. However, the 2020 observances also highlighted the political divisions within the country, particularly during an election year, with the presidential candidates attending separate events. The administration also utilized these moments to connect historical remembrance with current foreign policy and counter-terrorism efforts, framing ongoing military actions in the context of the fight against extremism, as reported by the Military Times.
Remembering 9/11
The Trump administration’s consistent observance of the 9/11 anniversary served as a powerful reminder of the tragic events of that day and their lasting impact on the nation. Through solemn ceremonies, presidential proclamations, and calls for national unity, the administration sought to honor the victims, acknowledge the sacrifices made, and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to resilience and resolve. These commemorations not only provided a space for remembrance but also served as a platform for addressing contemporary issues related to national security and foreign policy.
