1. The majority of the hijackers responsible for the September 11 attacks passed through New Jersey at some point in their travels leading up to the events of that day. Several of the hijackers lived in the state for a period of time.
2. The World Trade Center was visible from various points in New Jersey, and many residents watched in horror as the Twin Towers collapsed on that fateful day.
3. Newark Liberty International Airport was directly impacted by the attacks, as United Airlines Flight 93 departed from the airport and was later hijacked and crashed in Pennsylvania.
4. Many New Jersey residents were personally affected by the attacks, either by losing loved ones or by being directly involved in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero.
5. In the aftermath of 9/11, New Jersey played a significant role in creating and implementing new security measures at airports and other critical infrastructure throughout the state.