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On Friday, a commemorative gathering took place at London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, bringing together families of British victims of the September 11 attacks to observe the 25th anniversary of the tragedy in the United States. The remembrance event was organized by the UK charity Since 9/11 and was held near a memorial sculpture forged from steel salvaged from the World Trade Center’s ruins. Prime Minister Andy Burnham addressed attendees through a video message, emphasizing resilience by stating, “On this anniversary, we must remember that hatred and fear did not have the last word on 9/11.”
The attacks claimed the lives of 2,977 people, including 67 British nationals. In addition to the ceremony in London, other notable commemorations were held globally. The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, alongside the US ambassador to the UK, took part in a special Changing of the Guard ceremony, while numerous vigils occurred across the United States. In New York, a memorial service was held at the World Trade Center site, where victims’ relatives read out their names. Moreover, at the Pentagon memorial in Virginia, then-President Donald Trump affirmed that the nation would “never, ever forget,” adding that “on days like 9/11, we learn what a country is truly made of.”
During his video remarks, Burnham acknowledged the lasting pain caused by the attacks: “Time may pass, but I know the grief is still felt just as deeply today.” He stressed the determined spirit in response to such tragedies, declaring, “those who seek to destroy our way of life will never win.” He also recalled the solidarity shown by Americans after the Manchester attacks, reflecting on the “messages of support and friendship from people across America who knew better than anyone the suffering of our city.” The anniversary event featured various speakers including Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, who highlighted the importance of learning from the past rather than dwelling on it, saying, “When confronted by hate, our response must be to increase our love of community, of decency, of fairness, of family.” Additionally, cellist Megan Clarke performed in honor of the first responders, affected families, and attendees.
Among the attendees was Liam McKenna, who lost his aunt and uncle in the attacks at age 15 and vividly recalls watching the events unfold on television. He stressed the importance of remembering the tragedy and passing the knowledge to future generations. On the same day, Warren Stephens, the US ambassador to the UK, paid tribute by laying a wreath at London’s September 11th Memorial Garden in Grosvenor Square, remarking on the enduring friendship shown by the British people through widespread support following the attacks. Various political figures also shared their reflections, including Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, Wales’ First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, each expressing sorrow and underscoring the ongoing impact of that day on global events
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