09/11/2026
25 years after September 11, 2001, the commercial real estate industry continues to carry the lessons of that day.
The attacks claimed thousands of lives and forever changed our nation. They also prompted a fundamental reexamination of how buildings are designed, operated, secured, and prepared for emergencies.
Henry Chamberlain, then BOMA International President, remembers the shock of that morning: “The attack was a complete surprise and deeply unnerving.”
Preparing to leave for a flight, Henry received a call from a neighbor urging him to turn on the television. He watched the second plane strike the World Trade Center and, like millions of Americans, struggled to comprehend what was unfolding. His first call was to BOMA staff, directing them to head home as the Washington, D.C. region came to a halt.
In the weeks and years that followed, BOMA International joined with industry, government, and code-development partners to help commercial real estate professionals understand the impact of the attacks and prepare for the evolving standards, codes, and operational strategies.
While the lessons of September 11 continue to shape the industry, the human toll remains foremost.
Henry recalls the many stories from BOMA members who lost colleagues, friends, and loved ones, as well as the property professionals who helped buildings, businesses, and communities recover in the aftermath.
Today, we honor those who lost their lives, the courage of first responders, and the resilience of all the communities forever changed by that day.
As we reflect on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we are reminded that preparedness, leadership, and service are more than professional responsibilities. They are commitments to safeguarding the people and communities we serve every day.
