J.C. Watts: “I rise to honor and respect and pay homage to the brave American firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical…”

“I rise to honor and respect and pay homage to the brave American firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical professionals who suffered injury and death as they helped those in need during the terrorist attack on our Nation. September 11, 2001, stirs many feelings to many people. I feel happy to be an American. Witnessing the heroic actions by these first responders shows that even in the face of senseless violence, there can be good. Knowing that so many people came to the aid of their neighbors proves there is so much goodness in this great land that we all call home. Just like the first responders 6 years ago in Oklahoma City, the emergency personnel in Manhattan, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon have done yeomen's work under the most difficult of circumstances. To the families of the fallen, nothing can bring back the lives of loved ones. But Congress today expresses its profound sorrow while offering its bottomless gratitude.”