LIVE: President Trump visits the Pentagon and delivers remarks at 9/11 observance ceremony — 9/11/25

Key Concepts:

• 9/11 Attacks: The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, targeting the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a failed attempt on a fourth target due to the actions of passengers on Flight 93.
• Heroism and Sacrifice: The courage and selflessness displayed by first responders, civilians, and military personnel during and after the attacks.
• American Resilience: The nation's ability to endure hardship, overcome adversity, and emerge stronger.
• Eternal Vigilance: The need for constant awareness and preparedness to defend against future threats.
• Warrior Ethos: The values and principles that guide military service, including courage, duty, and self-sacrifice.
• Presidential Medal of Freedom: One of the nation's highest civilian honors, awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.

I. Invocation and Moment of Silence

• Rear Admiral Gregory Todd, Chief of Navy Chaplains, delivers an invocation, praying for comfort for those who grieve, strength for those who serve, and wisdom for leaders.
• The invocation references Abraham Lincoln's sentiment regarding bereavement and solemn pride in sacrifice.
• A moment of silence is observed to mark the minute of impact 24 years prior.

II. General Dan Kaine's Remarks

• General Kaine emphasizes that September 11th reminds us that even in the darkest of times, American strength endures and if attacked, we will immediately fight back.
• He recounts the events of the morning, including the flights taken over by al-Qaeda terrorists and the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
• He highlights the immediate response, noting that America started to fight back before the attack was even over.
• He praises the heroism of first responders in New York City and service members and civilians at the Pentagon who risked their lives to save others.
• He specifically mentions the 40 first responders on United Airlines Flight 93 who sacrificed themselves to prevent further loss of life.
• He urges reflection on the families' courage and the determination of the heroes of that day.

III. Secretary of War's Address

• The Secretary of War honors the victims and heroes of 9/11, emphasizing the resolve to never forget.
• He recalls his personal experience as a college junior joining Army ROTC and feeling an "unshakable call to action."
• He asserts that war should be used to punish enemies and secure the nation, not for "global social work."
• He acknowledges the valor of warriors who fought in Afghanistan and Iraq, even with "nation-building missions" and "half-baked exits."
• He states that the Department of War will always honor the service of warriors and uphold the warrior ethos.
• He emphasizes the importance of learning the correct lessons from 9/11 and the subsequent decades of courage.
• He references Romans 5:3-4, highlighting the themes of suffering, endurance, character, and hope.
• He expresses hope for the future, inspired by young soldiers, cops, firefighters, and border agents.
• He praises Charlie Kirk as a Christ follower and American patriot, stating, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

IV. President Donald J. Trump's Speech

• President Trump expresses grief over the assassination of Charlie Kirk, calling him a "giant of his generation" and announcing that he will posthumously award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
• He recounts the history of the Pentagon, from its construction in 1941 to the attack on September 11, 2001.
• He emphasizes American resilience, stating, "We take blows, but we never buckle. We bleed, but we do not bow."
• He shares the final words of victims from the planes and the World Trade Center, highlighting the power of love in the face of tragedy.
• He tells the story of Chuck Gastello, an elevator mechanic who ran into the World Trade Center to rescue people, and Steve Workman, an Army Sergeant who saved a severely burned Lieutenant at the Pentagon.
• He acknowledges Lieutenant Kevin Schaefer, who was saved by Steve Workman and went on to join the CIA team that located Osama bin Laden.
• He states that America's warriors avenged the fallen and sent a message to enemies: "If you attack the United States of America, we will hunt you down and we will find you."
• He explains the decision to rename the Department of Defense the Department of War.
• He shares the story of Army Lieutenant Colonel Kip Taylor, who died in the Pentagon attack, and his son Luke, who is now a second lieutenant in the Army.
• He pledges to honor the heroes of 9/11, defend the nation, and preserve the American way of life.
• He concludes with a call for unity and faith in God.

V. Benediction

• A benediction is delivered, imploring God's presence, peace for those who grieve, wisdom for leaders, and courage for those who stand watch.

VI. Conclusion

• The ceremony concludes with instructions for attendees and information about the Pentagon Memorial and Chapel.
• The speakers at the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial Ceremony honored the victims and heroes of the attacks, emphasized the importance of remembering the lessons of that day, and reaffirmed America's commitment to defending freedom and pursuing its enemies. The ceremony served as a reminder of the resilience of the American spirit and the enduring values that unite the nation.