Rep. Radanovich’s Statement on Patriot Day 2008
Washington,
Sep 11 -
Congressman George Radanovich (R-Mariposa) released the following statement in recognition of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001:
"Thank you for joining me this Patriot Day to mark the solemn anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001. We gather to express our sorrow for the innocent lives lost on that day and appreciation for the heroes of our law enforcement, first responder and public safety community—everyone who selflessly sacrificed so that others could survive.
"On that morning, seven years ago, Americans awoke to the stark realization that the world contained individuals and organizations bent on destroying the greatest democracy ever known, the United States of America.
"Over three thousand innocent lives were stolen to send a message that the freedom previous generations fought so hard to obtain and spread throughout the world was under attack from radical Islamic fundamentalists—maniacal ideologues who have complete distain for an individuals’ right to live in a society free of tyranny and oppression.
"Since that fateful day, the United States has been engaged in a global war on terrorism—a war with an ever changing battlefield, reflective of our now smaller world. The center of the Global War on Terror has been in Iraq, liberated from the tyrannical regime of Saddam Hussein and allowed to form the very type of democracy that was targeted on September 11th.
"The war in Iraq has not been easy, and there have been mistakes made along the way. However, since the beginning of the troop surge in 2007, we have seen a dramatic turnaround in Iraq.
"Recently, security control of the Anbar Province, which two years ago was one of Iraq’s most violent regions, was turned over to the Iraqi civilian forces after seeing a 90 percent reduction in violence.
"The credit of this accomplishment belongs to our incredible military men and women who have served their country admirably.
"The success in the Anbar Province is significant not just because the troop surge proved effective, but because the will and determination of the Iraqi people to live in a free, democratic society has overcome the evils of al Queda in Iraq—the same will and determination that was shown by so many Americans on September 11th.
"Today, we honor the lives that were lost that tragic day and the heroes who responded when their countrymen were in need. These individuals did not sacrifice in vain and it is fitting that today be remembered as Patriot Day—as Thomas Jefferson noted, “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots…”—their memory and actions serve as inspiration around the world to those who fight to be liberated from terrorisms’ heavy hand.
"Thank you. God bless you, God bless our troops and God bless America."
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