The Queen's 9/11 20th anniversary message to Joe Biden—as special event at Windsor marks somber day

The Queen's 9/11 anniversary message to President Joe Biden, on the 20th anniversary of the terrible attacks, is a somber reminder of what was lost and how people came together in the aftermath.

• The Queen's tribute came as the UK joined countries across the world in remembering the attacks of 9/11.
• There was a special changing of the guard at Windsor Castle.
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The Queen's 9/11 20th anniversary message to President Joe Biden is a fitting tribute to the American leader during this somber and emotional time. 

Remembering 9/11, the royal said, "As we mark the 20th anniversary of the terrible attacks on September 11 2001, my thoughts and prayers, and those of my family and the entire nation, remain with the victims, survivors and families affected, as well as the first responders and rescue workers called to duty."

The Queen, who herself visited the site of the disaster 11 years ago, says it's something she'll always remember.

"My visit to the site of the World Trade Center in 2010 is held fast in my memory. It reminds me that as we honor those from many nations, faiths and backgrounds who lost their lives, we also pay tribute to the resilience and determination of the communities who joined together to rebuild."

The US and the UK have a long history of being firm allies so needless to say, paying tribute to those affected by the terrible attack was important.

At Windsor Castle on September 11, 2021, a special changing of the guard ceremony took place. During the the US national anthem was played by the Band of the Welsh Guards.

Hundreds of onlookers paid their respects, watching the ceremony and observing a minute's silence after the band finished their performance of the anthem.

The event was similar to the one held in Buckingham Palace 20 years ago, on the day after the attacks, where the Star Spangled Banner was played in solidarity with one of the UK's closest allies.

Acting US ambassador Philip T Reeker said the heartfelt and respectful events were proof that the US has, "no closer ally and no closer friend in good times and in bad times" than the UK. He added, "This has shown the special relationship remains so crucial to all of us."