| WASHINGTON, D.C. ..."Today we honor and remember those Americans who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and their families, and we pay tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of those brave Americans who reponded to the terrorist attacks and risked their lives to help others. We also remember with prayer our men and women who are winning the War on Terror in Iraq and Afghanistan and the sacrifices that they make for our nation each day that they are in harm’s way.
“Most of us remember where we were on that fateful day when our nation was attacked. I was in an annual Board meeting of the Free Congress Foundation near the Capitol; my Mary Ellen was alone in our apartment two blocks from the Capitol. Now, seven years later, the shock and grief we felt can still be easily recalled and so can the leadership of our President, who rallied our nation at the site of the Twin Towers attack.
“We remember those who risked their lives in an effort to save others as well as those who stood in line with candlelight vigils. This tragic day made us appreciate more than ever the firefighters and others who keep our safety and protect our lives – and it’s a shame that it took a tragedy to do so. Today is a day we renew our commitment and pull together as Americans – not as liberals or conservatives, Republicans or Democrats, but as Americans, and we salute those who protect us around the globe.
“This day also stirs the memory for senior citizens of December 7, 1941, and the attack on Pearl Harbor – another day when Americans endured the shock of attack and came together as a Nation to meet the challenges of World War II. As a World War II veteran, I remember and appreciate the support we received back home, which is so important to those in service. I also remember with regret the treatment that our military received during the war in Vietnam, when many in our country failed to honor those who fought in that difficult struggle for freedom. Since then, Americans spawned a promise that we never again would fail to appreciate the service of our men and women in uniform and treat them with respect and honor – and that holds to this day.
“May God bless the families of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and those men and women in uniform who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation in the War on Terror, and may God continue to bless our men and women in harm’s way. Seven years after the terrorist attacks, America remains strong and safe, and may God continue to protect our citizens at home.”
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