Mr. Speaker, September 11, 2001, is a day that none of us will ever forget. I was sitting in my office across from our Nation's Capitol, and from the window in my office, I literally saw smoke rise from the Pentagon. A few hours later, I would learn that a young Navy petty officer from our district named Nehamon Lyons would be among the casualties at the Pentagon. Picking up the phone and calling his mom, Mrs. Jewel Lyons, back in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, was the most difficult call I have ever made. 

This morning, I joined with other Members of Congress and with our President, united, Democrat and Republican alike, united as one America, as we remembered in a special service at the Pentagon. We remembered those who lost their lives 1 year ago today at the Pentagon, at that pasture in Pennsylvania, and, yes, at the World Trade Center in New York City. After that ceremony I returned to my office and I called Mrs. Jewel Lyons in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to let her know what I had just experienced in that very special and moving service at the Pentagon and to let her know that America has not forgotten that young Navy petty officer, Nehamon Lyons, and his service to this great country. 

My grandfather taught me to always look for something good in everything bad. There was not anything good about September 11, but I do believe it has brought out the best in the American spirit. I see a country today that is more patriotic than perhaps ever in my lifetime. I see a country today with a greater appreciation for our veterans and our soldiers. And I see a country today that is praying a lot more. Bible sales are up, church attendance is up, and I know that means America is only getting stronger.