For those who lived through Sept. 11, 2001, it can be hard to imagine that so many people, an estimated 100 million Americans, were not even born yet or were too young to remember that tragic day. 

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum said this year’s milestone anniversary is not just about reminding people about what happened 25 years ago, but also educating members of the younger generation who may have no memory of the attacks or aftermath. 

“It’s very real, and when you come here and see it in person, you see its very real for a lot of people, impacted them personally. We see like all the flowers on the names, you know it’s real life,” Leslie and Gael Hinojosa, a couple both born after 2001, said while visiting the memorial. 

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum has created additional ways to pay tribute this year, including a new seventh moment of silence to honor the lives of those who died from 9/11 illness and injury. 

A new exhibit is also set to open on Sept. 12. 

“In Their Honor: 25 Years of 9/11 Inspired Service,” explores the legacy of service inspired by the attacks. 

“We also want America to honor the spirit of 9/12, where people of all backgrounds and ideologies came together in a spirit of patriotism and unity,” Beth Hillman, president and CEO of the museum, said.  

The phoenix, an art piece created in collaboration with America’s Camp Members, children who lost parents and family members on 9/11.  

Other impactful artifacts, such as a board signed by disaster medical assistance teams who provided vital medical aid and mental health support for first responders, are also on display. 

“I think about everything that came after that, I think about the first responders, the ordinary New Yorkers who ran into danger when everyone else was running away,” Logan Miller, whose uncle died in the attack, said. “I think about those like my grandfather who became sick years later, but I also think about the countless people who looked at what happened that day and decided to do something because of it.” 

The museum has also created a digital learning experience that can be used in schools nationwide to help teach young people about the legacy of 9/11. 

To learn more, or to plan your visit, go to 911memorial.org.