Yes, the remaining wreckage of United Airlines Flight 93 is indeed buried at the memorial site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
The Flight 93 National Memorial and its Sacred Ground
Following the tragic crash of United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001, in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, extensive recovery operations were undertaken. While much of the aircraft was disintegrated upon impact and debris was scattered over a wide area, a significant portion of what could be recovered, along with the impact crater itself, was designated as hallowed ground.
The decision to inter the remaining wreckage at the site serves multiple profound purposes:
- Honoring the Deceased: The crash site is considered the final resting place for the 40 passengers and crew members who bravely resisted the hijackers, preventing the plane from reaching its intended target in Washington D.C. Burying the remaining debris on-site formally designates it as a sacred burial ground, ensuring the dignity and perpetual remembrance of those lost.
- Preserving the Site's Integrity: It maintains the historical integrity of the crash location, transforming it into the permanent Flight 93 National Memorial. This ensures the site remains undisturbed and respected for future generations.
- A Place of Reflection: The memorial, overseen by the National Park Service, offers a place for visitors to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of the individuals aboard Flight 93. The physical presence of the buried wreckage underscores the reality and impact of the events of that day.
The Flight 93 National Memorial stands as a testament to the heroism displayed, ensuring that the legacy of those aboard Flight 93 is eternally recognized and honored. For more information on the memorial, you can visit the official Flight 93 National Memorial website.
