Former U.S. Presidents gather at 9/11 Memorial for 25th anniversary

Former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden gathered at the National 9/11 Memorial in Lower Manhattan to observe the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

In addition to the presidential presence, thousands of civilians attended the memorial service to pay their respects. Many visitors left flowers, such as roses, at the bronze parapets etched with the names of the 2,977 victims of the 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

Through social media statements, the former presidents reflected on the tragedy. George W. Bush noted the spirit of the American people revealed by the attacks, while Barack Obama emphasized national unity. Bill Clinton called for treating one another with respect to honor those lost.