Northern Virginia

‘A Horrific Day:' DC Area Commemorates 9/11 Attacks

184 people were killed when American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon in Arlington

Officials in Northern Virginia held a moment of silence to mark the anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attack on the Pentagon.

Sen Tim Kaine, Rep. Don Beyer, military commanders, local Arlington County officials and members of the Virginia House attended the rememberance ceremony on Arlington County government plaza.

At 9:37 a.m., a moment of silence marked the moment that American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon and killed 184 people.

A ceremonial wreath was then placed under the flag pole to honor those killed.

The Arlington County Fire Department was the first to arrive at the scene 18 years ago. The memories are still fresh in the memories of the firefighters at Station 5.

Former Assistant Fire Chief Jim Schwartz told News4 he remembers arriving and seeing thousands of people streaming away from the Pentagon.

"It was obviously a horrific day," Schwartz said. He says he remembers the heroic actions of people inside the Pentagon helping each other escape.

In Alexandria, a Sept. 11 remembrance ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday.

The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial just outside the Pentagon grounds will be closed to the public from 5 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesday for a private ceremony. 

It will also be closed for several months beginning Sept. 16 for lighting repairs and construction.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser will visit a fire station in Northwest to commemorate the day and thank first responders.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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