The United States is marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks today, with remembrance ceremonies taking place across the country to honor nearly 3,000 people who died.

Nation Pauses to Remember Victims

Ceremonies are being held at Ground Zero in New York, the Pentagon in Virginia and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania. Families of victims, first responders, government officials and members of the public are gathering to remember those killed in the attacks.

The anniversary includes moments of silence and the traditional reading of victims' names, while communities across the country are also marking the occasion through memorial events and volunteer activities.

A Lasting National Impact

The attacks fundamentally changed U.S. national security, foreign policy and American public life. The response led to major changes in airport security, federal law enforcement and intelligence operations, as well as the creation of the Department of Homeland Security.

This year's observance also recognizes people who later died from illnesses linked to exposure to toxic dust and other conditions following the attacks. A new moment of silence has been included to honor those victims.

Twenty-five years later, the nationwide commemorations reflect the continuing impact of September 11 on American families, first responders and generations born after the attacks.