Alan Simpson: “Yesterday, our nation witnessed one of the most despicable acts imaginable to mankind. The senseless devastation…”

“Yesterday, our nation witnessed one of the most despicable acts imaginable to mankind. The senseless devastation unleashed through these cowardly acts left every American with a sense of lost innocence and increased fears. Today, however, our nation stands united against not only the individuals who perpetrated the attacks, but against those who abhor freedom and embrace such evil and hatred. America is a land that embraces freedom and values human life. We are a people that rush to help our fellow citizens, even at great peril to ourselves. Yesterday, America witnessed the heroism of police, firefighters, and bystanders who risked their own lives to help others. That is America at its finest--a spirit that will not be broken. While America grieves, no nation, group, or individual engaged in or harboring terrorism should misunderstand the immense resources being employed to identify and punish those responsible. We will find you, we will hunt you down, and we will eliminate you. The American people and the rest of the world must know that in times of great pain and tragedy, America is united not divided. As we have done countless times throughout our nation's glorious and storied history, Americans will unite behind President Bush to ensure that justice is served.”