Jim Langevin: “on September 11 our world changed forever. The United States suffered an attack unlike any the modern world has ever…”

“on September 11 our world changed forever. The United States suffered an attack unlike any the modern world has ever known. Thousands have been lost and will be forever missed by their friends and families. As we mourn this loss, we must find ways to strengthen our national homeland defense and to prevent terrorism both here and abroad. Critical to meeting this goal will be the brave and dedicated members of our Armed Forces. I rise today to pay my respects to these brave men and women, in particular, the dedicated members of the 143rd Airlift Wing of the National Guard who will be deployed today. The National Guard has tirelessly served our great Nation since the organization of its first units in 1636 in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The Guard fought in Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War. During the 1990s, the Guard's role dramatically increased to a total force partner at home and throughout the world. Today, we are relying on the Guard in our airports and communities throughout the country to guard us from a recurrence of what was unthinkable just a short time ago. Mr. Speaker, we have entered into an era in which homeland defense is a crucial concern for which we rely heavily on our National Guard. These remarkable people stand out among ordinary Americans because they have chosen to give of themselves and help defend our country in times of need.”