First beams of Freedom Tower installed

The first support beams for New York's Freedom Tower were lowered into position yesterday at the ground zero site.

A 31-foot white beam with "Freedom Tower" emblazoned on the side was placed into its slot by crane, before relatives of 9/11 victims were allowed to write messages on other beams set to be installed.

The two support columns that were installed mark a big step in the construction of the 1,776 foot tower (deliberately set to symbolise US independence), one of four planned for the ground where the World Trade Center once stood.

Departing republican governor George Pataki and mayor Michael Bloomberg were among those who attended the ceremony.

"Today the steel rises, the Freedom Tower rises from the ashes of September 11th, and the people of New York and the people of America can be proud," Mr Pataki noted.

More beams will be placed around the central structure, including the ones signed by the families of those most affected by the 2001 terrorist attack.