The 40 passengers and crew members of United Airlines Flight 93 are memorialized at the Flight 93 National Memorial. These were the brave souls whose plane was on September 11, 2001, hijacked. Instead, they broke loose from the objectives of those terrorists, forcing consequences and preventing more tragedy, even at the cost of their lives, by doing so. Joni’s bravery is honored in a quiet yet very moving space, where those who visit are caused to pause and be mindful of the cost.
The Story of Flight 93
Four terrorists seized Newark, New Jersey-bound United Airlines Flight 93. These hijackers planned to fly into a high-profile target, such as the U.S. Capitol. Passengers and crew members were already aware of the other assaults in New York and Washington thanks to phone calls with family. They decided to act when they saw that they were part of a systematic assault. But through their extraordinary bravery, they prevented the hijackers from carrying out their plan and saved countless others. Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania — The plane nosed into an open field here, and everyone died, but hundreds of others were given back their future.
Creation of the Memorial
The events of that tragic day forever changed the nation. The House-passed bill noted that efforts to honor the passengers and crew who bravely stood in the face of their attackers started almost immediately. In 2002, the Flight 93 National Memorial was established to commemorate their bravery and sacrifice. In subsequent years, the memorial has transformed into a stunning and sad remembrance of those who gave their all. Partnerships between the National Park Service, Families of Flight 93, and numerous other entities brought each element to realization.
Design and Features of the Memorial
The Flight 93 National Memorial is located on more than 2,200 acres of reclaimed coal fields. Tasteful toil of beauty, wherever possible, and the poignant reminder that no matter how hard one tries, it will always remain governs its design. One of the central features is the Wall of Names. Along this long white marble wall is written the name of every passenger and crew member; it serves as a memorial to their bravery. Visitors can walk along this path and pay their respects.
Another is the 93-foot-tall Tower of Voices, with its 40 wind chimes, one for each passenger or crew member. The chimes make a haunting yet beautiful song as the wind passes through the tower, almost like they are weeping and singing in memory of those who died with them. The tower’s appearance is in perfect harmony with the environment and invites reflection on memory.
Sacred Ground
Sacred Ground is an integral part of the memorial on the site where Flight 93 crashed. The authorities buried the remains of the passengers and crew at the site. Visitors cannot walk on the Sacred Ground because Ute grounds-keepers, following agrarian principles, have designated it as off-limits. Visitors can now quietly contemplate the events and heroics of September 11 from an overlook.
Visitor Experience
Visitors can experience the story of Flight 93 in several ways at the site. The Visitor Center Complex, located on a hill overlooking the crash site, features exhibits and multimedia presentations detailing the events that occurred there. Artifacts, photos, and audio recordings let visitors learn more about these events and the heroism of both passengers and crew.
Park rangers guide tours and explain the memorial’s design and the events of Flight 93. There are also walking trails for those seeking a quieter moment of contemplation as they navigate the surrounding environment.
The Importance of Remembrance
Even in our darkest hour, the human spirit can overcome the horrifying evil of terrorism. This is a tribute to brave individuals who found themselves in extraordinary situations and chose to resist. With courage in the face of terrorism, they saved lives and proved that humanity is excellent at its worst times.
On September 11 each year, the memorial hosts a special observance to remember those who died on that day. Relatives, survivors, and officials come together to remember those who died. This is the only official commemoration, ensuring the sacrifice of both passengers and crew remains honored and never overshadowed by time.
