FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SEPTEMBER 11, 2002
CONTACT: LINDA MACIAS/PAUL TODD (202) 225-6161

Baca Joins President, Members of Congress in Remembering September 11

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) joined President George W. Bush, about 200 members of Congress, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, and many of the families of victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the Pentagon in remembering those who died in the attack and rededicating the reconstructed wing of the Pentagon that was damaged in the attack. The event took place in front of the Pentagon's west face, which was struck by the third plane hijacked by terrorists on the morning of September 11, 2001.

"It was my pleasure to join the families of the heroes of the Pentagon disaster and to reflect on their lives and their sacrifices for freedom," Baca said. "It's fitting that the Pentagon reconstruction was finished ahead of schedule, and now stands as a testament to our resolve in the fight against terrorism."

After the event at the Pentagon, Baca and the other members of Congress who attended headed back to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., to vote for a resolution recognizing the Anniversary of September 11, 2001. The resolution is expected to pass unanimously.

"I am proud to cosponsor this resolution because it accurately captures the emotions in our hearts," Baca said. "We all desperately wish it could be September 10^th forever."

"Three of my constituents lost their lives on September 11, and my community will never forget their sacrifice: Cora Holland, mother of three and grandmother, who died aboard American Airlines flight 11; Rhonda Rasmussen, who died at the Pentagon; and Navy Yeoman Second Class Melissa Rose Barnes, who remains unaccounted for at the Pentagon."

"We as a nation have pulled together to build our courage and strength, for we are united and our faith will guide us. I salute those brave individuals, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and others who sacrificed of themselves for their fellow Americans."

"One year ago, for the second time in our modern history, our nation was attacked. War was thrust upon us. Undoubtedly, this day will forever live in our memories. On behalf of the people of the Inland Empire of California, I join my colleagues in full support of this resolution."

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