STATEMENT FROM SENATOR YOUNG ON 10th ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11

Catharine Young

September 9, 2011

“Looking back and remembering the horrible events of 9/11, it is hard to believe that it was only 10 years ago when our country came under attack by terrorists who brought hate and death from the skies.

The memories and emotions from that day are so easy to go back to. The images of planes disappearing into the Twin Towers, of smoke clouds rolling down the streets of lower Manhattan, of photos hung by family members of their missing, all are permanently etched into our memories and will never be erased.

Like most Americans, I also remember the way people all across the nation, regardless of creed or race, joined in their support of the nearly 3,000 people who perished and to those who lost their loved ones.

Likewise, the gratitude extended to all the firemen, first responders and the countless heroes runs deep. Many local people also volunteered to go to ground zero and we all take pride in their service.

Ten years later, I find it inspiring how the country has moved in the exact opposite direction as to what the terrorists had hoped to achieve. They wanted us to crumble and fall apart, but we did not.

Today, in communities all across the country, there is more patriotism, more pride, and more united feeling than most of us have ever witnessed in a lifetime. What was supposed to make our spirits falter, has made us stronger as a nation.

We also must remember the brave men and women in uniform who continue to fight to protect our security and freedom. Their courage and perseverance are greatly appreciated.

I urge all of us to approach the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 in prayer and hope for peace all across the globe.”