risques-niger.org – On the morning of September 11, 2001, the world witnessed a series of coordinated terrorist attacks that would forever change the landscape of global security. Among the targets was the Pentagon, the iconic headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, located in Arlington, Virginia. This article delves into the events of that day, providing an in-depth look at what happened inside and around the Pentagon during the attack.
The Morning of September 11, 2001
The day began like any other for the thousands of employees and military personnel who worked at the Pentagon. However, by 9:37 a.m. EDT, American Airlines Flight 77, a Boeing 757, was deliberately crashed into the western side of the Pentagon, causing massive destruction and loss of life.
The Impact
The aircraft, traveling at approximately 530 miles per hour, struck the building’s outer ring, between the E and D rings, on the first floor. The impact caused a massive explosion, instantly killing all 64 people aboard the plane, including the hijackers, and 125 people inside the Pentagon. The crash also severely injured many others and caused a partial collapse of the building’s structure in the area of impact.
Response and Rescue Efforts
In the immediate aftermath, the Pentagon’s emergency response teams, along with local and federal agencies, sprang into action. The Pentagon’s own fire brigade was among the first responders, battling the blaze and conducting search and rescue operations. The response was complicated by the structural damage, which included a large debris field and hazardous conditions from the burning jet fuel.
The Aftermath
The attack on the Pentagon was a pivotal moment in the history of the United States. It led to significant changes in national security policies, the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security, and the initiation of the War on Terror. The Pentagon itself underwent extensive renovations and security enhancements to prevent future attacks.
Remembering the Victims
The events of September 11, 2001, left an indelible mark on the nation’s psyche. Each year, the country remembers the victims of the attacks, including those lost at the Pentagon. Memorials have been established to honor their memory, and the Pentagon Memorial, located on the site of the impact, serves as a permanent tribute to the 184 individuals whose lives were taken that day.
Conclusion
The attack on the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, was a defining moment in American history. It tested the resilience of the nation and its people, highlighting the bravery of those who responded to the disaster and the enduring spirit of those who continue to remember the victims. The Pentagon, having emerged from the ashes of that day, stands as a symbol of American strength and determination in the face of adversity.