WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao today joined President Trump at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Stoystown, PA, to honor the passengers and crew of Flight 93, and who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. Secretary Chao also joined the Families of Flight 93 in a wreath laying ceremony at the Wall of Names.
“As we remember the heroes, the fallen, their families, loved ones, and survivors of the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, a permanent plaque is commissioned to pay tribute to the U. S. Department of Transportation employees who kept our country safe on that day and in the months afterwards, and to serve as a reminder to never forget what happened,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.
In the hours, days and months following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the Department of Transportation was pivotal in America’s response and recovery. The Department shut down civil aviation in our country’s national airspace within just four hours, guided the safe landing of approximately 4,500 aircraft, and helped evacuate more than 350,000 people from Manhattan.
Additionally, the Department assisted in reopening of roads, tunnels, bridges, harbors and railroads throughout the country, once it was deemed safe to do so. The response was swift and effective due to the incredible professionals at the Department of Transportation who serve America every day.
The Department also hosted a virtual event to commemorate the day. The Secretary’s remarks can be viewed here .
