In 2001 I was living in the centre of town as a Student. I also worked in a call centre for a company selling tickets for music events. The crash(es) happend on the morning of September 11th (US time), I found out about them in the evening of September 11th (UK time) when I got to work.
I remember the moment. I turned up to work and my workmate asked if I'd been watching the TV. I said of course not it was early evening, daytime TV sucks. He said, and I quote: "The worlds gone mad, terrorists have blown up New York." then I had to get on the phone and answer calls.
I managed to catch a bit of TV that evening and someone I worked with said "I bet it's that Bin Laden bloke". I said "Bin Who?" and sure enough the TV reported he was number one suspect.
Since then it's had little effect on my life. Well the event has but some actions following have (2 wars etc....). The message that the terrorists were sending through 9/11, although powerful, has not been heeded by those in positions of power in the US and its messed up.
Whilst we're on the subject I should add that the over-the-top public greaving following the events of 9/11 and also the Diana death (UK) have made me more sickened by society than anything else. Sure its nice to show you care but get a grip, ffs.
As fucked up as it was the images from 9/11 will continue to be some of the most fascinating of all time (much like the Kennedy assassination footage). I think turning it into "art" is as valid a statement as any in the history of free expression.
Plus I wanna show it to all my mates!

Sam Brobvision