Robin Carnahan: “last Tuesday's terrorist attack is having an immeasurable effect on our country. We are a nation of heavy and broken…”

“last Tuesday's terrorist attack is having an immeasurable effect on our country. We are a nation of heavy and broken hearts devastated by the tremendous loss of life, property, and sense of security. My heart goes out to the victims and their families. We continue to take solace in the heroic deeds of the rescue workers and the patriotic response of Americans across the country. September 11 was a dark day in our history. But we have had dark days before. In the midst of World War II, Thornton Wilder wrote: Every good and worthwhile thing stands moment by moment on the razor edge of danger and must be fought for whether it is a home, or a field, or a country. We will lead the fight for freedom today. And, as in times past, we will be victorious. Last week Congress acted with unity and speed to respond to the attack on our people. We are authorized the use of force. We provided $40 billion for the relief effort. We must deal promptly and decisively on another front. The ongoing stability of the aviation industry must be an immediate priority. First of all, we need to act quickly to heighten security in our airports and on commercial aircraft. We must make Americans feel safe so that they will continue to fly. Unfortunately, improving security will not be enough. Our Nation's airlines are clearly suffering as a result of the Federal Aviation Administration's decision to ground commercial aircraft last week.”