Jeff Fortenberry: “today we remember those who died tragically on September 11, 2001, and the family members who continue to mourn such…”

“today we remember those who died tragically on September 11, 2001, and the family members who continue to mourn such terrible loss. We honor the strength of these Americans, and we also thank the brave men and women defending America today from those who continue to seek to do us harm. Mr. Speaker, we live in a very special place. We live in a country that is built on the fundamental principle that all persons have inherent dignity and rights. The freedoms we enjoy depend upon this fundamental principle. And as many did in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, Americans are willing to risk their lives for the sake of their fellow citizens, for the good of the country, family, and community. Last week, I had the privilege of formally welcoming home the soldiers of the 67th Area Support Group of the Nebraska National Guard as they all returned home safely from over a year-long deployment. What a beautiful scene, families reunited, husbands and wives in loving embraces, children scrambling to meet the mom or dad they had known only through letters or photos for the past year, parents taking up young children in their arms perhaps for the very first time. {time} 1845 In their commitment and patriotism, these soldiers had given more than a year away to family and home to serve their country. Many of our military service personnel will tell you that their service is driven by the events of that fateful day 5 years ago.…”