Thousands expected in Gander, N.L., for ceremony marking 9/11 attacks 25 years ago

Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre said in a video that was filmed at the 9/11 memorial in New York City that he remembers the generous families of Gander and other Canadians who welcomed passengers from diverted flights.

He also paid tribute to the victims.

“We remember the 24 Canadians who died. The 3,000 Americans who died.” he said. “The courageous New York firefighters who ran into the flames rather than running away.”

Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to make a statement later in the morning.

Gander is opening its doors again today, for an event commemorating the 25th anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, at the local arena and community centre.

Dignitaries including Jean Chrétien, the prime minister of Canada on 9/11, and Gov. Gen. Louise Arbour are expected to address the crowd.

United States Ambassador Pete Hoekstra is also on the list of speakers.

“On this 25th anniversary, I am returning to say a heartfelt thank you not just on behalf of those who were stranded, but for an entire nation that remains moved by Gander’s generosity,” Hoekstra said in a statement earlier this month.

His visit comes at a painful time for Canada and the United States’ relationship.

U.S. President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods last month, prompting Canada to retaliate with levies on American products.

However, Percy Farwell, the mayor of Gander, has said the humanity that emerged in his town 25 years ago transcends politics.

“Hopefully this is a bit bigger than all that,” he said in an interview last week.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2026.

Sarah Smellie, The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

Thousands expected in Gander, N.L., for ceremony marking 9/11 attacks 25 years ago

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