Statement of Congressman Miller on 9/11 Anniversary

September 13, 2006– Congressman Miller made the following statement today urging passage of H. Res. 994, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives on the fifth anniversary of the terrorist attacks launched against the United States on September 11, 2001:

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 994.  This week, all Americans pause and remember the heroes of September 11, 2001.  We honor their sacrifices, recall their courage, and pay tribute to their legacy.  On that day five years ago, the strength of our nation was challenged and our resolve tested.  The gallant actions of our fellow Americans showcased the resilience of our spirit and reinforced our ideals of life, liberty, and democracy.

“The United States today is a nation far different than it was five years ago.  We have come to recognize the dangers that hate and terrorism impose upon peaceful and freedom-loving people worldwide.  We are better informed of terrorist threats and better organized to deter these dangers.  Most importantly, we have learned that the Global War on Terror, this great struggle of our time, is a fight best waged on foreign soil, out of the reach of American streets, American neighborhoods, and American families. 

“As we pay tribute to the memory of September 11, 2001, Congress will take up several measures to ensure that our homeland is secure.  These measures are designed to combat a new enemy that hides from sight, attacks the weak and unprotected, and uses innocent civilians as human shields.  To prevent future terrorist attacks, we are working to disrupt terrorist activities internationally and domestically, including stopping terrorist networks and their financing schemes and securing our borders and critical infrastructure.

“September 11, 2001 was a watershed moment in American history, when the defenders of freedom and democracy began the long struggle against fear and tyranny.  Five years later, we pause as a nation to honor the memory of those who lost their lives that day and all those who have since made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of liberty.  In addition, we honor the brave actions of all of our servicemembers during the War on Terror.  Day in and day out, our military forces are making significant progress in weeding out violence and extremism, promoting peace, and training domestic security forces.  Their actions have safeguarded life, liberty, and democracy for all Americans and prevented fear and violence from taking hold in America.

“Thank you, Mr. Speaker.”