Craig Ferguson, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo, addressed attendees during a ceremony marking the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The event was held to remember those who died and to reflect on the lasting impact of that day.
“Thank you for gathering here today as we mark the anniversary of September 11, 2001 -a day that changed our country -and the world- forever,” Ferguson said.
He noted that 2,977 people lost their lives in attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. “Among them were people from all walks of life: parents, children, first responders, coworkers, friends. Their lives were cut short in an instant, and today, we pause to honor their memory and reflect on the magnitude of that loss.”
Ferguson highlighted how communities responded in the aftermath: “In the hours and days that followed the attacks, we witnessed the very best of humanity. First responders ran toward danger to save others. Strangers helped one another down stairwells and across bridges.”
He emphasized national unity after September 11: “People across the country came together—not as individuals divided by background, politics, or geography—but as Americans united in grief, compassion, and resolve.”
Standing with colleagues near an American flag in Antananarivo, Ferguson continued: “Today, as we stand here by our flag, we remember the lives lost, the families forever changed, and the courage shown by so many.”
He spoke about lessons learned from 9/11: “We also reflect on the lessons 9/11 taught us: the importance of unity in the face of adversity, the value of everyday heroism, and the need to never take for granted the peace and freedoms we enjoy.”
Concluding his remarks with a call for ongoing remembrance through action as well as words, Ferguson stated: “May we continue to honor the memory of those we lost—not only with our words, but with our actions, by demonstrating compassion, bravery, and dedication to preserving our shared values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
He then invited participants to join him in observing a minute of silence.