President Donald Trump commemorated the victims of the September 11, 2001, attacks on Tuesday at a ceremony held at the Ellipse near the White House, marking nearly 25 years since the tragedy. The event, organized by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, featured a 21-foot steel beam recovered from the South Tower of the World Trade Center. The nearly 17,000-pound beam has been traveling across the United States as part of the Steel Across America tour, serving as a tangible reminder of the attacks.
During the ceremony, Trump emphasized the resilience of the nation, describing the steel beam as a symbol of strength that no fire, evil, or terror can destroy. He reflected on the attacks as a defining moment in American history that created a clear demarcation between what came before and after.
Trump paid tribute to two individuals who lost their lives in the attacks. Jeffrey Palazzo, a New York City firefighter and Coast Guard reservist, will be honored this weekend with the commissioning of a new U.S. Coast Guard fast-response cutter in New York. Welles Crowther, an equities trader known as the "man in the red bandanna" for his heroic rescue efforts during the attacks, was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Crowther’s mother and sister accepted the honor on his behalf.
In his remarks, Trump briefly addressed the current political climate, warning against what he described as a "communistic way," referencing his frequent critiques of Democrats and the growing influence of democratic socialists within the party.
Trump also recounted his personal experience on the day of the attacks, recalling an incident near the collapse site where he was shielded from falling debris by two firefighters. While the timing of this moment was not specified, Trump described the firefighters lifting him and running to safety amid the chaos.
The event drew a modest gathering of government officials and first responders, including Republican Representatives Mike Lawler of New York and Dan Meuser of Pennsylvania, whose district includes Shanksville, the crash site of Flight 93. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who lost numerous family members and colleagues in the attacks, was also present. Lutnick, former CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald—which lost over 650 employees in the attacks—has been recognized for his efforts in rebuilding the firm and supporting victims’ families.
Frank Siller, chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and brother of fallen firefighter Stephen Siller, underscored the significance of the steel beam as a representation of American heroism and resilience. The steel beam is scheduled to participate in a procession through New York on Friday, retracing the route taken by Stephen Siller on 9/11.
The week of commemorations will conclude with multiple events, including one at the Pentagon that Trump is expected to attend.