Tony Thurmond: “I rise today, on this somber occasion, to remember and honor the thousands of lives that were lost one year ago today in…”

“I rise today, on this somber occasion, to remember and honor the thousands of lives that were lost one year ago today in the tragic terrorist attacks on our Nation. The United States will never forget the horrific events that occurred on what began as a peaceful morning of Tuesday, September 11, 2001. The tranquility of that morning was shattered by the evil acts of terrorists, filled with hatred for our Nation and opposed to the ideals we treasure. With their terror, our Nation was plunged into one of the darkest days of our history as thousands of Americans lost mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, friends and associates. However, during this tragedy, the American spirit shined through that darkness and continues today, as a beacon to the world. It is that spirit, the willingness to expend the last full measure of one's life in service to others, that is the strength of our Nation. It is a power that grows as we are challenged. It is a force which has helped this Nation through difficult times and will see us through these times as well. On that dreadful day, the terrorists failed miserably in their attempt to weaken our Nation. Their goal was destined for failure, for America has faced adversity numerous times before and has always emerged stronger.”