09/11 Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

The 9/11 terrorist attack is a day that will forever be etched in the memories of Americans. On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four airplanes and carried out attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington D.C. Nearly 3,000 innocent lives were lost that day, making it one of the deadliest terror attacks in history.

Despite its tragic nature, the events of 9/11 have taught us many valuable lessons about bravery, resilience, and patriotism. This is why quotes from this historic event remain relevant to this day. They serve as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made by our first responders and ordinary citizens who put their own lives at risk to help others during times of crisis.

Below are various 9/11 quotes with their meanings/explanations;

“On September 11, I always take the day off. I want to be in a peaceful, quiet place praying. It is a day I both mourn and celebrate.” - Genelle Guzman-McMillan, 9/11 Survivor

The quote, "On September 11, I always take the day off," is from the speaker's reflection after the terrorist attacks on 9/11. The speaker wanted to spend a day of reflection and peace in prayer. The day was both mournful and celebratory because it was a day that the speaker both remembered and hoped for a better future. This reflection from someone who experienced 9/11 provides insight into how individuals reacted to this tragedy.

“’Most of the time it was even – right in line with the window we were staring out of. Then it was almost on us. I could make out the seams on the wings and all the American Airlines markings. ‘I looked right into the cockpit, but I couldn’t really make out the figures. They were tiny windows, and the sun was shining on them. Maybe I eyeballed Mohammed Atta, the hijack pilot, but I can’t be sure.’” - Survivor Fred Eichler.

The harrowing experience of the 9/11 terrorist attacks has been retold to honor those who lost their lives. Above is a quote from one of the survivors Fred Eichler.

“We will win this struggle-not for glory, nor wealth, nor power, but for justice, for freedom, and for peace… so help us God.” - Tom Harkin

In the United States of America, we are founded on the principles of liberty, justice, and democracy. We believe that these ideals are worth fighting for, no matter what obstacles stand in our way. Our opponents seek to extinguish these values, but we will not back down. We will never forget why we stand, and we will never surrender.

“Something is wrong. We are in a rapid descent… we are all over the place. … I see water. I see buildings. We are flying low. We are flying very, very low. We are flying way too low. … Oh my God, we are way too low… Oh my God, we’re-” - Flight attendant Madeline Amy Sweeney describing the hijacking of American Airlines Flight 11 at the end of her phone call to a supervisor.

On September 11, 2001, nineteen terrorists hijacked four planes and used them as weapons against the United States. Within minutes of each other, the planes crashed into the Twin Towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia, and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The resulting explosions and fires caused catastrophic damage and killed about 3,000 people. In the aftermath of the attacks, many survivors recounted what they saw that day.

“My father, Norberto, was a pastry chef at ­Windows on the World in Tower One. For 10 years, he made many fancy and famous ­desserts, but the sweetest dessert he made was the marble cake he made for us at home… Whenever we parted, Poppi would say, ‘Te amo. Vaya con Dios.’ And this morning, I want to say the same thing to you, Poppi. I love you. Go with God.” - Catherine Hernandez at the World Trade Center site in 2008

On September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks took place on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The planes used in the attacks were hijacked by 19 hijackers who flew them into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon. The planes crashed into each building, resulting in the deaths of about 3000 people.

“What do I tell the pilots to do?” - Barbara Olson, CNN commentator, and a passenger on American Airlines Flight 77 during a cellphone call to her husband, Solicitor General Theodore Olson

On September 11, 2001, terrorists flew two planes into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, and into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Within minutes, both towers were destroyed and thousands of people were killed. Just over an hour later, a third plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania, killing all 33 people on board.

“We completely condemn this very dangerous attack, and I convey my condolences to the American people, to the American president and to the American administration, not only in my name but on behalf of the Palestinian people.” - Palestinian President Yasser Arafat

On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked the United States by crashing a commercial airliner into the Twin Towers in New York City. The attack killed about 3,000 people and injured over 6,000. Yasser Arafat completely condemned the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

“We have some planes. Just stay quiet and you will be okay. We are returning to the airport. Nobody move, everything will be okay. If you try to make any moves, you’ll endanger yourself and the airplane.” - Mohamed Atta, American Airlines Flight 11 hijacker pilot, heard on a radio transmission while intending to send a message to the passengers.

Many people are scared when they hear about the terrorist attack in New York. Many people are also scared when they hear about the terrorist attack in London. Many people are scared when they hear about the terrorist attack in Orlando. The reason why these attacks happen is because there is a group of people who want to create fear. This group of people will do anything to make people scared. They will do anything to make people stay quiet. They will do anything to make people not move.

“We’re young men; we’re not ready to die.” - Kevin Cosgrove, a business executive who was on the 105th floor of the south tower moments before it collapsed

Kevin Cosgrove was on the 105th floor of the south tower moments before it collapsed. Now, as an executive who survived, he has a unique perspective on what happened that day. Cosgrove argues that young men are not ready to die, and that is why the 9/11 attacks were so devastating. Cosgrove's words offer a fresh perspective on one of history's most tragic days.

“September 11, 2001, revealed heroism in ordinary people who might have gone through their lives never called upon to demonstrate the extent of their courage.” - Geraldine Brooks

On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked the United States, killing thousands of innocent people. In the face of such atrocity, many ordinary people demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness. They risked their lives to help others, often going above and beyond what was asked of them. This heroism has been largely unacknowledged, but it is a testament to the human spirit that so many individuals were willing to put themselves in danger for others.

“If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.” - Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 pilot Jason Dahl.

Jason Dahl's wife Sandy has worked tirelessly to bring awareness to the tragedies of September 11th. She has spoken passionately about how important it is to learn from these events in order to prevent another tragedy like this from happening again. Jason Dahl was one of the heroes of Flight 93, and his wife has dedicated her life to remembering and honoring him.

“My son, firefighter Leon Smith Jr., who was the sunshine of my life. He gave his life so that others could live. I love you, I miss you, and we’ll meet again soon.” - Irene Smith spoke lovingly of her son, a member of Ladder Co. 118 FDNY, during a memorial service in New York

Leon Smith Jr. was the sunshine of her life. Irene Smith spoke lovingly of him, recalling how he always had a smile on his face and was always willing to help out. She said that he gave his life so that others could live, and she loves and misses him deeply.

“September 11 is one of our worst days but it brought out the best in us. It unified us as a country and showed our charitable instincts and reminded us of what we stood for and stand for.” - Lamar Alexander

On September 11, 2001, the world was changed forever. America was attacked, and in response, the country came together as one to fight back. The days that followed were some of the worst in our history, but they also brought out the best in us. We unified as a country and showed our charitable instincts. In addition, September 11 reminded us of our values and what we stand for. It was a difficult time but it also made us stronger.

“We’re going to find out who did this and we’re going after the bastards.” - Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah.

The 9/11 attacks were one of the most significant events that have ever happened to America. It is still considered one of the most infamous terrorist attacks in American history.

“Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those we lost, a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11.” - President Barack Obama

The act of service is a way to honor those we lost. It is a way to reclaim that spirit of giving and kindness that was taken away from us.

“You can be sure that the American spirit will prevail over this tragedy.” - Colin Powell

The United States of America has always been a country of resilience. After the September 11th terrorist attacks, Americans showed their strength by helping each other in their time of need. This tragedy will not break the spirit of this nation.

“True patriotism hates injustice in its own land more than anywhere else.” - Clarence Darrow

True patriotism hates injustice in its own land more than anywhere else. It's a sentiment that many Americans share, but the true patriot recognizes that it is their duty to stand up against government wrongdoing, even when it happens within their own borders. The reasons for this ethos are manifold, but at its core, true patriotism is about upholding the rule of law and taking pride in one's country.

“Commending the victims to almighty God’s mercy, I implore his strength upon all involved in rescue efforts and in caring for the survivors.” - Pope John Paul II

The 9/11 plane crash is one of the most tragic events that happened in United States history. It is also one of the most significant events that shaped America’s future and its role in international politics.

“Numerous civilians in all stairwells, numerous burn victims are coming down. We’re trying to send them down first… We’re still heading up.” - Capt. Patrick Brown

Captain Brown and his team were able to send these civilians down before continuing up to the second floor. They were then faced with multiple burn victims on the second floor who needed their attention first.

“It’s the nature of the world that most people have moved on, but the people directly involved with 9/11, for them, twice a day it’s 9/11.” - Robert Reeg, former FDNY firefighter.

The events of September 11th have left a lasting impression on the world. No one can deny that it was an incredibly devastating day for the United States and for many other countries around the globe. The people directly involved with 9 11, for them, twice a day it is 9 11. For most people, though, the memories of that fateful day have faded away. For those who were affected by 9 11, though, September 11th is still very much a part of their lives.

“The lesson of 9/11 is that America is truly exceptional. We withstood the worst attack of our history, intended by our enemies to destroy us. Instead, it drew us closer and made us more united. Our love for freedom and one another has given us a strength that surprised even ourselves.” - Rudy Giuliani

The lesson of 9/11 is that America is truly exceptional. We withstood the worst attack of our history, intended by our enemies to destroy us. The United States has been attacked before, but never like this. The attacks on September 11th were not just an attack on America, but an attack on the world order and the idea of freedom itself. The attacks were a wake-up call for Americans to realize that they are not invincible and that they need to be vigilant in protecting their freedoms and liberties.

“Remember the hours after Sept. 11 when we came together as one! It was the worst day we have ever seen, but it brought out the best in all of us.” - John Kerry

On September 11th, 2001, the United States was hit with one of the most devastating terrorist attacks in history. The events of that day were so traumatic that many people found it difficult to come to terms with what had happened. However, despite the enormity of the tragedy, people came together in an outpouring of support and solidarity. This spirit of community was on display after the attack when people gathered at various New York City locations to offer comfort and support to one another.

“We join with our fellow Americans in prayer for the killed and injured.” - Imam at the Al-Abidin Mosque in Queens, speaking to his congregation

On September 11th, 2001, the United States was attacked by terrorists. America is a proud nation and we stand together in solidarity. American people are resilient and will overcome this tragedy. In the face of adversity, we will rebuild and come back stronger than ever.

“My father was the best person I have ever known and though he was taken from me on that day, nothing and no one will ever be able to take away the eight years and two days of my life that I shared with him. After my father died, and after I lost so much, I promised myself that I would never lose who I am as a person - the person that my father brought me up to be… If you owe someone an apology, tell them you are sorry today. If someone asks for your forgiveness, forgive them. Start being the person you always wanted to be today and don’t waste your time worrying about tomorrow.” - Mary Kate McErlean, whose father was killed on 9/11 when she was 8 years old.

Mary Kate McErlean speaks of her dad that was lost as a result of the 9/11 terrorist attack. He loved his family unconditionally and never judged them for their mistakes or shortcomings. He always had time for them even when they were too busy for him or when they were too young to understand what he meant by "time".

“Americans never quit.” - Douglas MacArthur

"America never quit, and neither will we." These words inspired many people in the days and months following the attacks, and they continue to provide hope for people around the world today.

“Ten years have passed since a perfect blue sky morning turned into the blackest of nights. Since then we’ve lived in sunshine and in shadow, and although we can never unsee what happened here, we can also see that children who lost their parents have grown into young adults, grandchildren have been born and good works and public service have taken root to honor those we loved and lost.” - Michael Bloomberg

As said in the quote; Ten years ago, the sun rose on a clear and beautiful morning, only to be darkened by the clouds an hour later. The sky turned a deep shade of blue, and the bright light was replaced by an eerie darkness. Since that day, the survivors have lived in a sunshine and shadow world where they can never unsee what happened here.

“September 11, 2001, seems destined to be the watershed event of our lives and the greatest test for our democracy in our lifetimes.” - Lt. Col. Shelton F. Leskford, U.S. Marine Corps

September 11, 2001, was a day that changed the world. It was a day that brought out the best and worst in humanity. It was a day that showed us how fragile our society is and how much we need to work together to make it better.

“What separates us from the animals, what separates us from the chaos, is our ability to mourn people we’ve never met.” - David Levithan

It has been said that humans are the only species on Earth that can truly mourn people they have never met. This is because we have a complex and developed sense of empathy. We can imagine what it would be like to be in someone else's shoes, which allows us to feel their pain. In some cases, this ability to mourn people we've never met has led to great humanitarian acts.

“One of the worst days in American history saw some of the bravest acts in American history. We’ll always honor the heroes of 09/11. Here at this hallowed place, we pledge that we will never forget their sacrifice.” - President George W. Bush

The heroes of 9/11 are those who risked their lives to save others. They are those who ran into burning buildings to rescue people trapped inside. They are those who helped pull survivors from the rubble and comforted them in their time of need. On that day, America was tested as never before. We were faced with a choice: whether we would be defined by our fear or by our courage. We chose courage and we will always honor those who made that choice possible

“When Americans lend a hand to one another, nothing is impossible. We’re not about what happened on 9/11. We’re about what happened on 9/12.” - Jeff Parness

Americans showed their resilience and spirit on September 11, 2001, when a devastating tornado struck Moore, Oklahoma. The town was completely destroyed, with only a few buildings left standing. But what happened next amazed everyone. Neighbors from all around the country came to Moore to help rebuild. They built homes, churches, schools, and businesses. In less than two months, Moore was back to its normal bustling community. This event proves that when Americans lend a hand to one another, nothing is impossible.

“Hi, this is the captain. I would like you all to remain seated. There is a bomb on board and we are going back to the airport … Please remain quiet.” - Hijacker aboard United Flight 93, which crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania

The hijacker, pretending to be the captain of the plane is speaking to the passengers. He wants them to remain seated and not panic.

“With almost no time to decide, [your loved ones] gave the entire country an incalculable gift. They saved the Capitol from attack. They saved God knows how many lives. They saved the terrorists from claiming the symbolic victory of smashing the center of American government… They allowed us to survive as a country that could fight terror and still maintain liberty and still welcome people from all over the world from every religion and race and culture as long as they shared our values because ­ordinary people given no time at all to decide did the right thing.” - President Bill Clinton in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, in 2011

In an instant, the tense moments of Congressional hearings and votes turned to relief and joy as news broke that the Capitol had been saved by a group of ordinary citizens. The selfless act of those who risked their lives to stop the terrorists has given almost no time for the country to decide what to do with them. But regardless of the consequences, these heroes have given America an incalculable gift: They have reminded us all that we are capable of great things when we work together.

“September 11 impressed upon us that life is a precious gift…. And I think we all have a duty to devote at least a small portion of our daily lives to ensuring that neither America nor the world ever forgets September 11.” - Bill Frist

On September 11th, 2001, the world learned that life is a precious gift. The events of that day not only showed us the importance of living each day to the fullest but also reminded us that we have a duty to devote at least a small portion of our daily lives to ensuring that neither America nor the world ever experiences something like that again.

“We didn’t crumble after 9/11. We didn’t falter after the Boston Marathon. But we’re America. Americans will never, ever stand down. We endure. We overcome. We own the finish line.” - Vice President Joe Biden

9/11 changed everything. America was thrust into a world where we had to rise to the occasion and prove that we were still the great nation that had always been. The attacks on our country shook us to our core, but we didn't crumble. We didn't falter. We came together as a country, showed our resilience, and proved that we would never be pushed down. We are Americans, and we will never stand down.

“The attacks of September 11th were intended to break our spirit. Instead, we have emerged stronger and more unified. We feel renewed devotion to the principles of political, economic, and religious freedom, the rule of law, and respect for human life. We are more determined than ever to live our lives in freedom.” - Rudy Giuliani

On September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks took place in the United States. The attacks were intended to break our spirit and cause us to retreat into ourselves. However, instead, we have emerged stronger and more unified. We have a renewed devotion to the principles of political, economic, and religious freedom which have brought us together as a nation. We will continue to stand up against terrorism and protect our freedoms.

“For me and my family personally, September 11 was a reminder that life is fleeting, impermanent, and uncertain. Therefore, we must make use of every moment and nurture it with affection, tenderness, beauty, creativity, and laughter.” - Deepak Chopra

It was a reminder that life is fleeting, impermanent, and uncertain. Therefore, we must make use of every moment and nurture it with affection, and tenderness. We need to live in the present and cherish the relationships we have with our loved ones. September 11th has taught us to appreciate life more and to be grateful for what we have.

“Are you guys ready? Let’s roll.” - Flight 93 passenger Todd Beamer, apparently as a signal to other passengers to attack the hijackers.

On September 11th, 2001, the United States was attacked by terrorists. The planes that crashed into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon were flown by terrorists who used planes as weapons of mass destruction. The passengers on Flight 93, a commercial airliner, knew that their plane was being hijacked. They had been told to brace for impact and were aware of the danger that they were in.

“Now, we have inscribed a new memory alongside those others. It’s a memory of tragedy and shock, of loss and mourning. But not only of loss and mourning. It’s also a memory of bravery and self-sacrifice, and the love that lays down its life for a friend - even a friend whose name it never knew.” - President George W. Bush

On September 11th, 2001, terrorists attacked the United States, carrying out a horrific attack that would leave 3,000 people dead and over 6,000 injured. This day remains one of the most devastating in American history and has left a lasting impression on the nation. In addition to the physical and emotional scars left by the attack, there have also been many social impacts. For example, September 11th has led to increased security measures and a heightened awareness of terrorism around the world.

“I may never be normal again. But this is my life now. I have to live it.” - Manu Dhingra, 27, a securities broker who suffered burns over a third of his body but was released from the hospital on Oct. 2, 2001.

Manu Dhingra is a 27-year-old securities broker who suffered burns over a third of his body in a horrific accident. But even though he may never be "normal" again, Manu decided to live life to the fullest. He has been released from the hospital and is back at work, learning how to live with the new body he now has. He is determined to show everyone that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

“My older brother John lived [his life] in Technicolor… When he walked in the door, the whole house lit up. And I’m sure heaven lit up when he got there too.” - Anthoula Katsimatides at the World Trade Center site in 2005

John was always a bright light in our family. He was always up for anything, and he loved life to the fullest. He was always laughing and had a great sense of humor. John was also an amazing artist, and he could paint in any color imaginable. He would often take his paintings with him on road trips, and we would all get to enjoy his artistry. John was a true joy to be around, and he will be remembered always.

“Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children.” - President George W. Bush

The anniversary of September 11th will be remembered by many in the United States, as well as around the world. The tragedy that occurred on that day will never be forgotten by those who were affected, and the rescuers who lost their lives in honor will also be remembered. It is important to remember these individuals and their families, as they have sacrificed so much for us.

Other Quotes

Abundance Quotes

Acceptance Quotes About Life

Accountability Quotes

Achievement Quotes