On the recordJanuary 12, 2011
Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution today. We gather here to remember the innocent people whose lives were cut tragically short by the horror that unfolded in Arizona on Saturday. We also gather to honor and pray for our colleague, Representative Giffords, and the others wounded in that attack. It was a real privilege for me to participate in the reading of the Constitution with Gabby, and I anxiously look forward to her return to the House floor. Joined by so many in Virginia's Second District, I offer my heartfelt condolences to all of those affected by this tragedy. I commend the citizens, the first responders, and the health care professionals who bravely worked to protect and save lives. We are blessed to live in a country where freedom and the opportunity to peacefully assemble and petition our elected officials, even at a grocery store, is a cherished right. We uphold that right today, and we stand united in condemning this senseless act of violence. My wife, Teri, joins me and all of this body in praying for those who lost their lives, for those who were wounded and their families. May God bless America and bring peace to America.
