Many counties and cities throughout the nation organize community events to honor those lost in the terrorist attacks 11 years ago on Sept. 11. At the very least, citizens have come to expect their local government institutions to lower American flags to half-staff. Â
With bagpipes and somber bells sounding a sharp counterpoint to the commemorative moments of silence, the nation on Tuesday marked the 11th anniversary of the terrorist attack that brought down the World Trade Center in Manhattan and shattered the country's political psyche.