The Spectator The independent student newspaper of Valdosta State University
By: Megan Callahan, Campus Life & News
Sept. 11, 2001, was a defining moment in our country’s history. The iconic Twin Towers, Manhattan’s World Trade Center, were taken to the ground and almost 3,000 people died during this attack.
This year marks this date 25 years since this tragic event occurred. Many people who were born after it happened have little memory of that day.
The people who were alive during this time often say they will never forget that day.
9/11 had such a significance to American history. Not just because it was such a catastrophic moment, but it also began the invasion of Afghanistan followed by the Iraq War of 2003.
9/11 also had a significance over time as well. For example, before that day, security at airports was minimal. After 9/11, the Transportation Security Administration”(TSA) was created to ensure the safety all passengers entering the airport.
But after that major security breach on 9/11, airports doubled the effort to make sure every flight was safe and secure.
To help students understand why this event is so important in American history, VSU is hosting a public event, “25 Years Later: The 9/11 Attacks, Then and Now,” featuring guest speaker Dr. Edward “Ted” Duggan.
Duggan is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Tallahassee State College, a faculty advisor for TSC’s Model United Nations Program, and the 2026 recipient of the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Award.
There is so much more about 9/11 to talk about. Not just why it is significant, but the amount of damage caused from this event.
9/11 was one of those moments where everyone stopped what they were doing to focus on what was happening in New York. Schools stopped to watch the news; people stopped what they were doing to call their loved ones in the midst of the chaos.
So, if you want to learn more about 9/11, definitely go to Dr. Duggan’s “25 Years Later: The 9/11 Attacks, Then and Now”, event on September 10, from 5-6 p.m. in Converse Hall Auditorium, room 1204.
