Jim Langevin: “today I join millions of people in solemn reflection on the tragic events of September 11, 2001. One year has passed…”

“today I join millions of people in solemn reflection on the tragic events of September 11, 2001. One year has passed since that horrific day thrust the world into shock and sadness; and while some pain has subsided, our wounds have not entirely healed, particularly for those who lost loved ones in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington. However, by responding to this tragedy with hope and determination, our Nation has grown stronger. As the initial confusion of the attacks subsided, we became familiar with some of the names and the faces of the victims. Rhode Island was touched personally by this tragedy through the loss of several who called our State home. David and Lynn Angell, Carol Bouchard, Renee Newell, Mark Charette, Michael Gould, Amy Jarret, Kathryn Laborie, Shawn Nassaney and Lynn Goodchild. We learned about these individuals, their interests and their lives. We have prayed for their families and loved ones and responded to their grief with compassion. As in the past, Americans offered sympathy and support to those touched by tragedy, reminding us that though the terrorists attacked our Nation, they did not and they cannot damage our spirit.”