Sean Patrick Maloney: “It has been nearly 2 weeks since war came to New York City, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and America. These cowards have…”

“It has been nearly 2 weeks since war came to New York City, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and America. These cowards have waged war not on our Army and Navy, but on ordinary men and women who were killed simply because they showed up for work. This unspeakable tragedy has been New York's darkest hour, but it has also been its finest hour. We knew New York's bravest and finest would respond with great courage; but we did not know how many firefighters, police officers, and other rescue workers we would lose. Last week, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella) and I introduced legislation honoring Mayor Giuliani for his leadership, the rescue workers, and the people of New York City for their courage, volunteerism and enduring spirit. Through their selfless attempts to save innocent people, hundreds of rescue workers and citizens made the ultimate sacrifice. We appreciate all that they have done. We owe them our eternal gratitude. Mr. Speaker, our city and country are mobilizing as never before. The day after the terrorist attack at ground zero I saw not only the devastation but the determination in all New Yorkers and Americans to rescue, rebuild--and repay the terrorists in calculated, just, multi-national strikes at them and those who harbor them. We're getting back to work to rebuild Lower Manhattan and to keep our economy strong. From the bottom of my heart I thank my colleagues for their swift support for the $20 billion we've approved to rebuild.”