The white-gloved hands of people in black uniforms grip a folded American flag during a ceremony. Spots of sunlight and shadows fall on the flag.
Photo by Jin S. Lee

U.S. Service Members and Veterans

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum recognizes the courage, selflessness, and sacrifice of the people who answered the call to serve or continued their military careers after the attacks.

In the days and months that followed the 9/11 attacks, many men and women were inspired to enlist in the armed services and deployed into harm’s way to selflessly protect the United States and its freedoms and ideals. 

Many of these brave men and women have since returned to their communities as civilians. Others gave their lives. This enduring connection between the military and the events of 9/11 is evidenced by the thousands of veterans and active-duty service members who visit the site each year, and in the hundreds of reenlistment and promotional ceremonies that have taken place at the 9/11 Memorial.

Meet our Visionaries in Service.

Upcoming Events

Free Community Event for Military Families

On Sunday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the 9/11 Memorial & Museum proudly welcomes Active and Retired U.S. Military, Veterans, Blue and Gold Star Families, and the communities that support them for a special day of connection and recognition in honor of the Month of the Military Child. This free community event features engaging programs, meaningful storytelling, curated resources, and family-friendly activities that celebrate the strength, resilience, and service of military families.

Advance reservations are required and can be made online. Reserve your complimentary tickets here

Event Highlights

Youth & Family Tour | 9/11 Memorial Museum | 11:30 a.m.
Guests are invited to join a guided Youth & Family Tour designed to foster reflection and conversation across generations. Advance registration is required at the time of ticket reservation. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Stories of Service | Auditorium | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Auditorium will feature first-person perspectives from participants in the Museum’s Anniversary Digital Learning Experience, sharing powerful stories of service and sacrifice.

Art Cart Activity | Atrium Terrace | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Children and families can take part in hands-on creative activities inspired by themes of service and community.

Community Resources & Family Activities | Concourse Lobby | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Explore resources for servicemembers and military families, and participate in interactive activities designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Our Flag Was Still There Installation | Foundation Hall | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Visit Our Flag Was Still There, a new installation which explores how the American flag became a symbol of strength and unity in the aftermath of the attacks and features flags carried on missions during the War on Terror.

Salute to Service

Veterans talk about 9/11, their call to service, and their experiences at the 9/11 Memorial Museum.

STS VET PAGE Final_caps_v3

Every year around Veterans Day, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum hosts Salute to Service, a special tribute to America’s veterans and the families and communities that support them. During Salute to Service, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum hosts a series of events and special programs for veterans and their families, as well as the visiting public.

For 9/11 Family Members

A person’s gloved hand touches a name adorned with a yellow rose on a bronze parapet at the Memorial. The hand of a second person is between the first hand and a second yellow rose.
Photo by Jin S. Lee

If your loved one served in the military and you would like us to place a yellow rose at his or her name on Veterans Day, and if you have not previously provided this information to the Memorial, please email veterans@911memorial.org.

9/11 Memorial Glade

Six stone monoliths border the pathway of the 9/11 Memorial Glade. There are three monoliths on each side of the path. Trees with bright green leaves stand to the left and right of the path.

The Glade honors those who are sick or have died from exposure to toxins in the aftermath of 9/11.

Learn more

Accessibility

A man communicating in sign language is silhouetted against a bright screen at the Museum.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is committed to ensuring access for all visitors. 

Learn more