On September 11, 2001, a series of coordinated attacks occurred on the United States by terrorists. A total of four commercial airliners were hijacked. Two of them flew into the World Trade Center in New York City, killing all on the plane. The twin towers, a US landmark rich in history, collapsed and several other buildings in the area were destroyed or sustained significant damage. Another hijacked plane was crashed into the Pentagon located in Arlington, Virginia. The fourth plane crashed into a field after passengers and crew attempted to retake the plane. Everyone on each of the four planes were killed. There were deaths due to the other crashes as well totalling nearly 3,000 people, mostly civilians including nationals of over 70 different countries, affecting everyone around the world in this tragic attack, the worst ever on American homeland soil. There were 66 UK citizens who died during the attack. Let us take some time today to honour those affected by the 9/11 attack here, in the US and around the world by launching sky lanterns.

The United States suffered an incredible blow to their country on this day, nine years ago. Several people were killed, some immediately, some falling to their death from the towers. It was agonising to watch and the entire world was riveted as the destruction unfolded literally before our eyes. In the wake of such a tragedy, many heroes emerged. The authorities and fire fighters who worked tirelessly to assist the injured and rescue as many people as possible, the citizens and tourists who helped one another, the people from around the world who offered support in their time of need – many should be honoured today and sending up sky lanterns is the perfect way to do this.

Sky lanterns were traditionally used as a means of sending prayers to the heavens and for honouring people. Considering this is such an important day for one of our closest allies, sending up sky lanterns to honour all those involved is a great idea. Send sky lanterns in honour of the nearly 3,000 people who died during the 9/11 attacks including over 60 citizens of the UK. Send sky lanterns in honour of the people who assisted during this time of tragedy, including those from around the world who came to help with rescue efforts, clean up and rebuilding. If you know someone who was directly affected by this tragedy, write their name or their story on a sky lantern and then launch it.

Today is a rather sombre day in American history and although they are directly affected, countries from around the globe, including those of us in the UK were also affected. This is a great time to reflect on what happened and how we can prevent such attacks in the future here or abroad. But mostly, this is the day we should reflect on those who lost their lives in a tragic event and those heroes who tirelessly and selflessly worked during this tragedy in service to others.

This entry was posted on Saturday, September 11th, 2010 at 2:23 PM and is filed under General News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.