|PIC1|Prayers, memorial services, and candlelight vigils have been held over the weekend to mark the official days to remember the victims of the tragic September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States.

The National Days of Prayer and Remembrance last Friday to Sunday were scheduled as a period where Americans and people around the world could honour the thousands of people who died.

"We honour the members of our Armed Forces who died while taking the fight to our adversaries, and we are grateful for those who continue to protect our nation and our way of life. Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication help preserve our freedom," said President George W Bush in a statement. "We pray for their safety, for all those who love them, and for the peace we all seek."

On September 11, 2001, a series of coordinated terrorist suicide attacks by Islamic extremist group al-Qaeda, shook the world and left Americans feeling insecure and vulnerable to more attacks.

Hijackers took control of four planes, two of which were flown by their hijackers into the World Trade Centers in New York City causing the collapse of both buildings. A third airline crashed into the Pentagon, while passengers and crew in the fourth plane tried to regain control of the aircraft before it eventually crashed into a field in Pennsylvania.

In total, 2,974 people died, including passengers on the planes, workers in the WTC and the Pentagon, firefighters, police officers, port officers and people on the ground in New York City.

"During these days of prayer and remembrance, we reflect on all we have lost and take comfort in each other and in the grace and mercy of our Creation," said Bush in a statement. "May God guide us, give us strength and wisdom, and may He continue to bless our great country."