NEW YORK, Sep 11: Americans are commemorating the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks with ceremonies, volunteer work, and tributes.
Many loved ones of the nearly 3,000 people killed will join dignitaries and politicians at commemorations in New York, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Others choose to mark the day at more intimate gatherings, such as James Lynch, who lost his father Robert Lynch during the World Trade Centre attack.
The remembrances are being held during a time of increased political tensions, as the 9/11 anniversary is often promoted as a day of national unity.
The reading of names and moments of silence will mark the exact times when hijacked planes struck the World Trade Centre’s iconic twin towers and when the skyscrapers fell.
At the Pentagon in Virginia, the 184 service members and civilians killed when hijackers steered a jetliner into the headquarters of the US military will be honoured.
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump will attend the service before heading to the Bronx for a baseball game between the New York Yankees and Detroit Tigers Thursday evening.
In a rural field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, a similar ceremony will honor the victims of Flight 93, the hijacked plane that crashed after crew members and passengers tried to storm the cockpit.
People across the country are also marking the 9/11 anniversary with service projects and charity works as part of a national day of service.
Volunteers will be taking part in food and clothing drives, park and neighborhood cleanups, blood banks, and other community events. (AP)
