WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) today released the following statement on the murder of U.S. citizen Paul Johnson, Jr. in Saudi Arabia.

 

“My prayers go out to Paul Johnson’s family and loved ones during this terrible time.  I condemn this cowardly act of al-Qaeda with all of my heart,” Emerson said.  “The same al-Qaeda that planned and carried out the attacks of September 11th is now murdering additional American citizens.  This brutal slaying only strengthens our resolve to defeat the vicious enemies of freedom.  Throughout the Middle East, Americans are working to stabilize the region and bring peaceful democracy to nations that have succumbed to the bullying of terrorists.  We must continue to give our troops the support to complete their missions safely and soon.”

 

Johnson worked on Apache aircraft systems for Lockheed-Martin.  He was abducted by militants in Saudi Arabia last week.