Police cars with flashing red lights lined the streets near Penn Station and the New York Police Department scanned the area for signs of radiation. The exercise was a demonstration of the Securing the Cities Initiative, a New York City pilot that works with all levels of government and is designed to prevent a radiological or nuclear attack on high-risk metropolitan areas. Unfortunately, we know New York is a top target for a terrorist attack. That is why it is crucial that New York have the programs and funding needed to prevent an attack.

My Fellow Americans -- Forty-eight years ago, a new President stood where I stand today, and inspired our nation with words that urgently echo today: "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." Today, I renew that call.