Former President George W. Bush is hosting "A Legacy of Service: America at the 25th Anniversary of 9/11," an event at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, Texas, to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
The commemoration features a conversation between Bush and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who are expected to share reflections on the attacks' legacy and their impact on American life. The event also includes a discussion between General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and J.D. Crouch, former Deputy National Security Advisor. Army veteran and Paralympic triathlete Melissa Stockwell, and Navy veteran Jared Lyons, CEO of Student Veterans of America, are also among the featured guests.
According to the event's webpage, the conversations aim to offer an "elevated reflection on a defining moment in American history and on the enduring commitment to service that continues to strengthen the nation."
In conjunction with the anniversary, Bush has created 16 artworks reflecting on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience that emerged from the attacks. These pieces will be displayed at the Bush Museum through September.
Bush was president when the attacks occurred on Sept. 11, 2001. He was informed of the attacks while visiting an elementary school. He later introduced the phrase "war on terrorism" and officially declared a campaign during a joint address to Congress on Sept. 20, 2001, which initiated a 20-year period of conflict.
Following his presidency, Bush retired to Texas with his wife, Laura. The Bush Presidential Center has also invited the public to join first responders for a moment of remembrance on Friday morning.
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is also observing the 25th remembrance of the attacks, noting its alignment with America's upcoming 250th anniversary. Discussions are underway regarding the historical significance of 9/11 for the nearly 100 million Americans born after the event.