Political Quotes

“I rise today on the first anniversary of 9/11, a day which changed America's history. For the past 12 months, this Nation has collectively experienced a full range of emotion, from the initial fear and uncertainty of that fateful day, to anger and outrage at the loss of American life and the violation of two of our nation's most recognizable symbols. We have mourned and continue to mourn for the victims of this horrible attack. Their families and friends are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. Embedded firmly in my mind is the image of streams of people who came to the ridge overlooking the Pentagon to pay their respects and sanctified that hill with flowers, candles and notes of remembrance. Yet, in the midst of all the sadness, Americans have sought an outlet for their grief by renewing their sense of community service and patriotic pride. Our country, which has a strong history of bridging many differences, has become one. In Northern Virginia alone, we witnessed friends, neighbors and colleagues coming together to help rebuild and unite. With the round-the-clock dedication of the Pentagon Renovation team, the revival of the Pentagon has served as the quintessential symbol of our country's resilience and renewal. A special debt of gratitude goes out to those workers and planners who orchestrated this rebuilding. As we bear witness to the powerful images and experiences of the past year, we are proudly reminded of what it means to be an American.”