Jerry Lewis: “when we are confronted by the despicable, cowardly attack on the U.S.S. Cole during a simple refueling stop in a…”

“when we are confronted by the despicable, cowardly attack on the U.S.S. Cole during a simple refueling stop in a troubled port, our first reaction is anger and a desire to punish those who are responsible. But today I believe we should put those thoughts aside and consider instead on the sacrifice made by those members of the Cole's crew, and reflect on how our country--and the entire world--depends on such sacrifices by all our men and women in uniform around the globe. These crew members put themselves at risk to bring peace to a region that could self-destruct at any time if our warships were not present. The U.S.S. Cole was in Yemen, a nation with a history of antagonism to the United States, to help establish a new relationship of trust and friendship. They put their lives on the line not only to keep the peace, but spread its benefits. The force of the explosion gouged a 40-foot-by-40 foot hole in the side of the Cole. If this attack had occurred to a ship of almost any other navy in the world, the ship would have sunk with many lives lost. But the Cole's crew showed the intense training, high skill level and sheer determination that we have come to expect of all of America's armed forces. Twice in three days they contained the damage, keeping the ship afloat and saving many of their injured colleagues. Because of the unselfish dedication of Americans like those on the U.S.S.…”