Paula Cox was at the heart of the island’s response to the Twin Towers tragedy as Minister of Home Affairs, having immediately called for an emergency meeting upon hearing of the incident.

The news broke in dramatic fashion as Ms Cox and her colleagues attended a Cabinet meeting.

She recalled: “The news interrupted Cabinet and straight away I called for an EMO [Emergency Measures Organisation] and we met later that day at police headquarters in Prospect.

“It was an extraordinary time. But just after the news broke, initially, there was a certain feeling of disbelief.

“It was shocking and I don't remember where we actually saw the television pictures of the attacks.

“It was on a Tuesday and it was very early in the course of the meeting when the news came.

“There was a certain amount of disbelief as the information came in but we fairly quickly adjourned the meeting.

“It was certainly a critical moment for Bermuda and how we managed it.

“As I say, it was unbelievable at first and you thought, 'was it correct?;”

As the chilling confirmation was made, it was time for Bermuda to act.

Ms Cox, who became Premier in 2010, said: “We didn't blink.

“It was a challenging time and Bermuda stood up and was prepared to be counted, as always.

“We had to cope with planes being diverted to the island and everything that entailed … while there were issues of tourism, transport and national security.

“Home affairs at that time was much bigger than now and in its capacity it dealt with the labour and also the regiment and police matters plus public safety in a number of areas.

“It was a very interesting time and back then [during the attacks] everything was as clear as mud.

“There was no fear of attack as we had no indication of that and, if anything, Bermuda was seen as a port of [refuge] … and a safe harbour.

“That's why you had the airlines at that time diverting here to our airport.

“As part of our role, we were collaborating and co-operating with various agencies.

“Although we didn't think we were under attack there was concern from people and people panicked after seeing videos. But I think it was the uncertainty and waiting because you didn't know where it was going to end.

“Events were unfolding and we certainly had to be nimble.”

Bermuda rallied following the attacks in America and aircraft were diverted to the island.

Accommodation was found for 600 passengers during the turbulent time.

Troops from the Bermuda Regiment were deployed at the airport and other key sites to help reassure the public of their safety.

Ms Cox insisted: “We do [punch above our weight] and it's for such a small island.

“I think Bermudians have much to be proud of.

“We didn't blink and we had to do something as a member of the international community and not be paralysed.

“It was a big slice of history and you always know where you were when things like that happen.”

She added. “Our tourism took a big hit to be honest and it is only now that we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.”