Sandlin Remembers September 11th

SANDLIN REMEMBERS SEPTEMBER 11TH
EXPRESSES UNSHAKABLE CERTAINTY THAT AMERICA'S BRIGHTEST DAYS LIE AHEAD

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Max Sandlin (D-Marshall) today released the following statement in recognition of the 3rd anniversary of September 11th.

"Today we again gather together as one people united in observance of the greatest tragedy in American history. We do so still mournful of the staggering loss of life we suffered that terrible day three years ago and still humbled by the heroes whose courage lifted the spirit of a grieving nation.

"The attacks of September 11th, 2001, offered us a grim view of the evil capacity of terrorists, just as it showed us the triumph of the human spirit and the resilience of the American people.

"In the heroism of the firemen and policemen of New York, who rushed into burning buildings without regard for their own lives, we saw barbarism met with humanity. In the bravery of Pentagon personnel, who pulled their wounded comrades from the fiery ruins, we saw wickedness met with honor. And in the defiance of the passengers of Flight 93, who sacrificed their lives to deny victory to murderers, we saw cowardice met with valor.

"While years have passed since the Twin Towers fell and the symbol of America's military strength was breached, our minds still struggle to comprehend the magnitude of those horrific events wrought by evil men.

"Yet we have not stood idly by. Since that tragic day we have been reminded that, whatever differences separate us, when it comes to national security we remain a profoundly unified people. As President Bush said in the days following the attack, "we are a country awakened to danger and called to defend freedom. Our grief has turned to anger and anger to resolution." And, fulfilling his promise, around the world today justice is being done.

"Today, as our thoughts are on the horrific attacks of three years ago, and our prayers are with our servicemen and women deployed around the globe to protect our freedom, it is only appropriate to also remember the words of a past President who also face troubled times with determination and steadfastness.

"Over 140 years ago, Abraham Lincoln stood on one of the bloodiest battlefields of the Civil War and famously said, 'We here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain - that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom - and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.' His words ring as true today as they did so long ago.

"In the years ahead, the attacks of September 11th will be remembered not merely as an unspeakable tragedy, but as a date that triggered a renewal of the American spirit. As we continue to move forward in our battle against the perpetrators of evil, we will proceed with the unshakable certainty that America's brightest days lie ahead.

"God bless you, and God bless America."