US remembers 9/11 terrorist attacks

(AP) — Americans marked the 11th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terror attacks today in familiar but subdued ceremonies after a decade of remembrance.

As in past years, thousands gathered at the World Trade Center site in New York, the Pentagon and Pennsylvania to read the names of nearly 3,000 victims killed in the worst terror attack in US history.

However, many felt that last year's 10th anniversary was an emotional turning point for public mourning of the attacks. Fewer families attended the ceremonies this year, and some cities canceled their remembrances altogether.

"I feel much more relaxed" this year, said Jane Pollicino, who came to ground zero Tuesday morning to mourn her husband, who was killed at the trade center. "After the ninth anniversary, that next day, you started building up to the 10th year. This feels a lot different, in that regard. It's another anniversary that we can commemorate in a calmer way, without that 10-year pressure."

President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama observed the moment in a ceremony on the White House's south lawn, and then laid a white floral wreath at the Pentagon, above a concrete slab that said "Sept. 11, 2001 — 937 am."

He later recalled the horror of the attacks, declaring, "Our country is safer and our people are resilient."

Thousands had attended the ceremony in New York in previous years, including last year's milestone 10th anniversary.

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