Today we pause here in the UK to remember 11 September, a day that shook not only America but the whole world. Twenty four years have passed, yet the memories remain as vivid as ever. We think of the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the deep wound that day left behind.
Across the Atlantic, our cousins in the United States felt the devastation most directly, but we too stood still in disbelief and sorrow. Many in Britain watched in real time, unable to look away, hearts breaking for those caught in the unimaginable. The shock and grief were not confined to one nation, but shared by friends and allies who felt the ties of humanity more strongly than ever.
We remember not just the enormity of the numbers, but the individual lives. Each person lost that day had a story, a future, and people who loved them dearly. Their families have carried that weight for twenty four years with courage and dignity, and today we honour them as well.
We also think of the extraordinary bravery shown, of first responders who ran towards danger, of ordinary people who became heroes. Those acts of selflessness will never be forgotten and remain a reminder that even in our darkest hours, humanity can shine through.
For us here in Britain, today is a moment to stand shoulder to shoulder in remembrance with our American cousins. To let them know that we grieve with them still, and that we will never forget the day their loss became a shared sorrow for the world.
As we reflect, may we hold on to the lessons of compassion, courage and unity. May we continue to choose kindness in our daily lives, as a way of honouring those who can no longer walk among us.
