Dialogue With the American People

Floor Speech

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Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to serve as ranking member of the Intelligence Committee. The killing of Osama bin Laden is clearly the most monumental intelligence achievement in recent memory.

Osama bin Laden was a terrorist leader who was responsible for killing thousands of innocent Americans--moms, dads, brothers, sisters, friends, and loved ones. Bin Laden was a threat to the United States and a threat to the world. He had the blood of thousands of people on his hands. As we all know, 9/11 changed America forever.

Over the weekend, our military and intelligence professionals took extraordinary steps. They worked together as a team and killed the al Qaeda leader. It was a risky mission that was executed with intense training and a high level of skill. These professionals risked their lives to keep our country safe, and no American lives were lost. The men and women who carried out this operation exemplify the extraordinary courage of those who serve our Nation. The countless intelligence and counterterrorism professionals who had pursued bin Laden for years have the satisfaction of a job well done. I applaud them for their persistence and professionalism.

It was a great day for America. Justice has now been done. But let it be known, we have shown the world that if you come after Americans, we will come after you. Even if it takes disciplined persistence by our intelligence professionals and considerable time and resources, we will get you. Let that be a warning to all members of al Qaeda and any terrorists who attack the United States. Our fight against terrorism and those who want to harm Americans is not over, but we have severely weakened al Qaeda. We will remain vigilant as we continue to work tirelessly to protect our Nation.

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