September 11, 2001. 9:59 am. The South Tower of the World Trade Center collapses less than one hour after a hijacked United Airlines Flight 175 crashes into the façade. 10:28 am, 29 minutes later, the North World Trade Center collapses after a hijacked American Airlines Flight 11 crashes into the façade. 2,752 people were killed including all 157 passengers aboard both United and American Airline flights.
A decade later, America still mourns the ones who were lost. In remembrance of this day and in hopes that it will never be forgotten, a question is raised in whether or not a place on the calendar should be reserved in commemoration of September 11, 2001. One very good reason of why it should not become a national holiday is December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor.
Pearl Harbor Day launched our nation into the Second World War, claiming 2,400 lives of America’s service men and women. With all the mourning at the time, it seemed beneficial to create a day to recognize the loved ones who were lost. Sixty-nine years later, however, the day has unfortunately seemed to fade away. Generations of those who have either lived through or personally remembered the event are passing away. Soon, the day will end up completely losing its meaning and will become a day that will not live in infamy.
With September 11, we run the same risk. It is sad to say, but give it 50 years or so and very few will remember this day. In a recent vote, The Bell staff believes that September 11 should not be recognized as a national holiday as we believe that its meaning will be lost over time. Therefore, the Americans who still remember should keep a special place in their hearts for Septemeber 11, not their calendars.