Florida officials mark the 20th anniversary of 9/11

SEPTEMBER 11, 2003 Two years after the destruction of the World Trade Center, a pair of spotlights beam into the heavens from the Leon County Courthouse as a solemn tribute to those who died.

A somberness can be felt across the country today as Americans recognize the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, a wound inflicted on the nation Sept. 11, 2001.

Twenty years ago today, people watched in horror as hijacked planes leveled New York’s twin towers and crashed into the Pentagon, killing 2,977 individuals.

As Americans revisit the stories and images of the worst terrorist attack in the country’s history, here is how Florida leaders are marking the day.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who addressed veterans ahead of the anniversary Friday evening, recognized those who died in the attacks, as well as those who lost their lives serving in the military in response.

“The 20th Anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001, should prompt us to reflect on the thousands of lives lost and the enduring legacies of those who perished in the attacks,” DeSantis wrote in an statement published by his political committee, Friends of Ron DeSantis. “It is also a time to remember the sacrifices made by so many men and women in our military, as well as their families, in the years since to help protect our country. Empty chairs at the dinner table, missed holidays and birthdays, and precious time with friends and family have all been forfeited in pursuit of a mission for the good of the nation.”

Today marks the 20th anniversary of the worst terrorist attack in America’s history.

We remember the 2,977 individuals we lost and their families, and thank those who continue to serve and protect our nation.

We will #NeverForget.

— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) September 11, 2021

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried released a video message to honor the day, saying, “Everyone can recall where they were, what they were doing, when terror and tragedy struck America.”

“It was a sunny morning in Gainesville, where I was a student government leader at the University of Florida. We all went immediately to the student union to meet with classmates trying to reach family in New York,” she said in the video. “Everyone remembers how they felt that day. And after that, we came together – as one nation. We showed each other kindness and grace. We believed the best of our leaders, regardless of party.

“As we mark 20 years since that fateful day of September 11, as we remember the lives lost and memories honored, above all else, let’s recommit ourselves to being citizens and Floridians together in America, still the greatest nation on Earth,” she said.”

As we mark 20 years since that fateful day, and as we remember the 2,977 lives lost and memories honored, above all else, let’s recommit ourselves to being citizens and Floridians together in America — still the greatest nation on Earth.#911Memorial #September11 pic.twitter.com/bBmqphNtjc

— Commissioner Nikki Fried (@NikkiFriedFL) September 11, 2021

Sen. Marco Rubio also released a video observing the anniversary, honoring veterans and first responders.

“Today, we pause to remember the first responders who rushed into falling buildings and the veterans who courageously risked their lives. Without hesitation, these heroic men and women answered the call to defend their fellow civilians,” he said in the clip. “They highlighted the inherent good of our country — a selfless dedication to neighbors, complete strangers, and to the country. We cannot allow their memory to fade. Not only must we follow their example, we must also fight for them as hard as they fought for us.”

U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, a St. Petersburg Democrat, continued to emphasize the message, “We will never forget.”

“As we reflect on one of the darkest days in American history, we honor the 2,977 innocent souls we lost on that tragic day, the countless lives that were irreparably changed, and the families and communities who still grieve the loss of loved ones,” he said in a statement. “That day also gave us stories of courageous heroes, like the brave firefighters, police officers, and other first responders who ran towards the flames to try and save as many lives as they could. Over 400 first responders lost their lives that day – but their sacrifice has left an indelible mark on American hearts and reminds us every year that among the rubble and ruin, there was hope, love, and selflessness.”

Twenty years ago, nearly three thousand lives were stolen in an unthinkable, evil terrorist attack against our country. Today we mourn those we lost and honor the hero first responders who gave their lives to help others. We will never forget. pic.twitter.com/OXduMTTFTo

— Congressman Charlie Crist (@RepCharlieCrist) September 11, 2021

Similar to Fried, U.S. Rep. Val Demings recalled where she was the day of the attacks.

“I was at Orlando International Airport commanding the Orlando Police’s Airport Division. I will never forget the devastation and heartbreak of that day, and how it changed how we looked at the world,” she said. “Twenty years later, the attacks remain seared in my memory as we work to keep America safe. I have often thought of those we lost — almost 3000 people — and the bravery and sacrifice of so many first responders — 344 firefighters and 71 police officers. As we look back on this solemn day, I hope that every person will join me in saying a prayer for the families of the victims, for peace, and for the safety and security of all Americans.”

On #September11, 2001, I was at Orlando International Airport commanding the Orlando Police’s Airport Division. I will never forget the devastation and heartbreak of that day, and how it changed how we looked at the world. pic.twitter.com/3tWZ0KtbnK

— Rep. Val Demings (@RepValDemings) September 11, 2021