On September 11, 2001, the United States faced a devastating series of terrorist attacks that resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths and profound changes in national security and foreign policy. The attacks on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon prompted the U.S. to launch the War on Terror, reshaping global alliances and igniting ongoing debates about civil liberties and security. Twenty-three years later, the memory of 9/11 remains a somber reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of honoring those who risked their lives during the tragedy. Commemorations emphasize the need for security while reflecting on the impacts of the attacks, including heightened surveillance and military interventions. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum continues to offer ways for individuals and families to remember and honor the victims and heroes of that day. As the nation remembers, discussions around current security challenges and political responses to threats persist.