U.S. Remembers 9/11, Barack Obama Says 'Will Not Give In To Fear'

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON: Asserting that America would never "give in to fear", President Barack Obama on led the nation in remembering the nearly 3,000 victims of the 9/11 attacks, 13 years after the world's deadliest-ever terror carnage.

Obama, First Lady Michelle, along with vice president Joe Biden, observed a moment of silence this morning at the White House to mark the 13th anniversary of the horrifying suicide attacks on September 11, 2001.

"It has now been 13 years, 13 years since the peace of an American morning was broken, 13 years since nearly 3,000 beautiful lives were taken from us, including 125 men and women serving here at the Pentagon," Obama later said in his remarks at a Pentagon memorial ceremony.

"We carry on because as Americans, we do not give in to fear. Ever," he said. Ceremonies of remembrance were held in New York and Washington on a day Obama pledged to "destroy" Islamic State fighters in Iraq and Syria. Security across the country was tightened, in particular at airports and public places.

"After grievous wounds, we learn to walk again and stand again. After terrible burns, you smiled once more. For you, for our nation, these have been difficult years, but by your presence here today in the lives of service that you have led, you embody the truth that, no matter what comes our way, America will always come out stronger," Obama said. Obama noted that over more than a decade of war, this "9/11 generation" has answered the country's call.

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