POULSBO — Today is the 14th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

On Sept. 11, 2001 — four passenger airliners were hijacked by al-Qaeda terrorists; two were crashed were into the World Trade Center in New York City, one was crashed into the Pentagon. The fourth plane, initially steered toward Washington, D.C., crashed into a field near Shanksville.

The attacks killed 2,977 people (not including the hijackers) and caused at least $10 billion in property and infrastructure damage. It was the deadliest incident for firefighters and law enforcement officers in the history of the United States, with 343 and 72 killed respectively.

The United States responded to the attacks by launching the War on Terror and invading Afghanistan to depose the Taliban, which had harbored al-Qaeda.

Today at Naval Base Kitsap — Bangor, sailors stood at attention as the national ensign was raised to half-mast during a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony outside of the Trident Training Facility. The ceremony, held by the 2016 Pacific Northwest Chief Petty Officer Selects, honors those who lost their lives that day.

Sen. Patty Murray, D-Washington, issued the following statement today:

“Fourteen years ago today, in the midst of terrible loss and unthinkable horror, people across Washington state and around the country came together in an amazing display of triumph over terror. Regardless of race, religion, or political party, we united as Americans.

“Today, as we mark the anniversary of September 11th, I encourage everyone to remember those we lost and honor those who so bravely stepped up to protect our families and our freedoms, inspiring so much incredible compassion and service to others. Let us never forget the strong American spirit that can conquer in the face of great tragedy.”

In 2009, Congress designated Sept. 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance (www.serve.gov).