As America prepared to mark 25 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks that changed the world, the New York City skyline was illuminated by a bittersweet drone display paying tribute to each of the 2977 victims killed.
The haunting display showed nearly 3000 drones — each representing a victim — form into the shape of a helix over the New York Harbour before assembling into a “full architectural-scale” replica of the Twin Towers on Wednesday evening.
The rising helix was a reference to a proposal for a World Cultural Centre to be built on the original grounds of the World Trade Center.
The art show — produced by creative director Addison Mehr — was developed in collaboration with 9/11 survivors, family members and first responders, according to local reports.
President Donald Trump is expected to attend an observation ceremony at the Pentagon, whilst Vice President JD Vance and several former presidents — including Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Bill Clinton — will attend Ground Zero.
Mr Trump issued a statement early on Friday morning pleading with Americans to ensure the memory of September 11 “never fades into history.”
“We will never forget the 2,977 precious lives taken from us, we will always cherish their memories, and we will forever hold their families in the enduring embrace of our nation,” he said.
“We stand in unending gratitude to the first responders who answered the call of duty, including the thousands who continue to suffer from serious health conditions caused by their service.
“We honour the warriors of our armed forces who have defended the sacred cause of freedom in the quarter century since.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a joint statement with Defence Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, honouring the “courage and selflessness shown in the face of unimaginable horror.”
“First responders ran towards danger to help others. Ordinary people reached for one another,” they said on Friday.
“In the worst of circumstances, we saw extraordinary acts of courage, compassion and humanity. Today is also a moment to reflect on the resilience shown in the face of profound loss.
“Australia remembers those whose lives were taken, those who survived, those we’ve lost since, and all those who continue to carry the weight of that day.
“We honour their memory and we reaffirm our resolve to stand against terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms.”
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said terrorists would “never win.”
“Time may pass, but I know the grief is still felt just as deeply today,” he said.
“On this anniversary, we must remember that hatred and fear did not have the last word on 9/11.”
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