Congressman Mike Pence

Washington, DC – U.S. Congressman Mike Pence issued the following statement today on the anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001:

"As we move into the second decade since the attacks of 9/11, we must never forget the tragedy of that day and the personal effect the attack had on the victims and their families. Thousands lost loved ones in New York City, Washington, D.C. and in a field in Pennsylvania. Their memory lives on not only in monuments and memorial funds, but most importantly in the hearts of all Americans as we honor them today.

"We must also never forget the bravery and sacrifice of those who ran in when others were running out. Many of our police, fire and public safety personnel never made it out. Their sacrifice is etched on our hearts and we thank them today with our deepest gratitude.

"And finally, soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines answered the call that day and many days after with resolve, saying goodbye to loved ones and not thinking twice about going to fight on a foreign battlefield half a world away. Their actions have brought us a decade free from another terrorist event on American soil. To them and their families, I say 'thank you' and 'well done.'

"A common enemy forged common ground and a new generation of American heroes. Today, we rightly pause to remember those who fell on 9/11 and every day since in the War on Terror. But we also pause to celebrate those Americans who, by their service and sacrifice, have made this day of tragedy into a triumph of freedom."

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