Sheila Jackson Lee: “Today, on the steps of the House, we sang ``God Bless America.'' Standing on those steps some 15 years ago, the searing…”

“Today, on the steps of the House, we sang ``God Bless America.'' Standing on those steps some 15 years ago, the searing memory comes back again--the horrific bloodshed, the dividing of families, the loss of lives, the pain, and the tragedy. To those remaining loved ones, I offer my deepest sympathy. And to America: we will never forget. I am grateful that we passed S. 2040 today, the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act. The reason is, our citizens should never be denied the right to enter courts and to petition for justice. As well, the pain needs to be eased. I want to thank those first-responders. I visited Ground Zero. I have felt that pain. Every year, I think it is important for Americans to understand that we must remember to give honor and respect to those fallen and recognize the values of this Nation. As this legislation makes its way, I am committed to working with the administration in ensuring that all is well. It is important to note today, as we sang ``God Bless America,'' we honored those families still in pain by passing S. 2040, Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act. God bless America. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues in recognizing and commemorating the 15th anniversary of the attacks on our homeland on September 11, 2001. This Sunday will mark the 15th year since that day our nation faced the greatest loss of life on U.S. soil from an enemy attack since the attack on Pearl Harbor.…”