US marks 9/11 with sombre reflection

Five years after terrorists wrought death from clear skies, the US began its observation of a solemn anniversary today, with plans for silent reflection and fresh mourning for the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001.

On the 16-acre New York City expanse where the World Trade Centre once stood, four moments of silence were planned to coincide with the times when jetliners struck each of the twin towers, and when each tower fell.