Van Hollen Statement Recognizing the Anniversary of the September 11th Terrorist Attacks
Washington,
Sep 15, 2010 -
Madam Speaker, September 11, 2001 is a day forever etched into the memory of most Americans. On that day, over 3,000 innocent people – including 48 men and women from the state of Maryland – died during the attacks on the Pentagon, the World Trade Center, and aboard Flight 93. We gather today to honor their memory and the sacrifice of the families of the victims. We also renew our commitment to honoring the sacrifice and service of the citizens who risked their lives to help the victims as well as the survivors.
While 9/11 is a day of great sadness, it is also a moment of pride. Our reaction as a nation to those events—both as they were unfolding and afterwards—reveals much about us as a people.
On that day, our enemies thought they could break our will, but they underestimated our resolve and resilience. They sought to divide us, but they misjudged the breadth of our unity and the depth of our commitment to freedom.
As we look back on the nine years since the attacks, we are reminded that the threat is not over – the United States still faces enemies who spread hate through violence. The federal government and Congress have an obligation and duty to protect our nation. We have made great progress since the attacks, but there is still much to be done.
It is on this day that we also reflect on the way Americans from all backgrounds came together as one in the face of adversity. While every American should take a moment out of his or her day to remember those who were lost, we must continue to dedicate ourselves to giving back to our communities.
Congressman Chris Van Hollen
