North America marks 25th anniversary of September 11 attacks

As the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks approaches, various commemorations and personal reflections are being shared across North America. At the Peace Arch border crossing in South Surrey, hundreds of Canadian and American dignitaries, military personnel, and first responders gathered for a Northwest 9/11 memorial ceremony.

Retired NYPD Lieutenant Kevin Lynch shared his firsthand account of the attacks while working bicycle patrol in Brooklyn, describing the initial confusion and the subsequent evacuation efforts. Similarly, retired officer Joseph Imperatrice and former NYPD Lieutenant Nicholas Bavaro have offered reflections on their experiences during the emergency response and the transformation of the city following the collapse of the towers.

In Canada, Shawn Matheson, a firefighter and reserve officer, reflected on the surreal experience of witnessing the attacks while on duty. The anniversary also highlights the legacy of the more than 300 search-and-rescue dogs that worked at ground zero, including K-9 units like Atlas, who assisted in recovery efforts for months following the tragedy.