Pentagon survivors recount September 11 attacks

Survivors of the September 11, 2001, attack on the Pentagon shared their experiences during memorial commemorations.

Oscar Phillip Benjamin, an Army veteran who was serving as chief of anti-terrorism operations and intelligence at the Pentagon during the attack, spoke at a ceremony in Pennsauken, New Jersey. Benjamin recalled the moments leading up to the crash of American Airlines Flight 77, noting the realization that the building was a target and the subsequent chaos as thick black smoke filled the facility. He emphasized the importance of remembering those lost and expressed a hope for continued national unity and compassion.

In a separate reflection, State Senator John Damoose also recounted his experience of being inside the Pentagon during the terrorist strikes. These accounts highlight the personal impact of the attacks on those present at the site.