In the House of Representatives
of the United States
Monday, September 9, 2002
Hon. Philip M. Crane
of illinois
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my colleagues in the House and
Senate in commemorating the victims and heroes of September 11, 2001,
during our special session of Congress held in Federal Hall in New York,
NY.
On the days following the attacks on September 11, Americans across
the country came together to demonstrate the strength and resiliency of
this great country. It is in that same spirit that we stand together
today--both Republicans and Democrats--to reaffirm that strength and
resiliency by showing a strong bipartisan expression that we are first
and foremost Americans and are committed to protecting the freedoms and
values that make this country great.
As we go through this week and revisit some of the darkest moments in
our Nation's history, we must remember that our Nation has always been
one that has triumphed over adversity. At times of great despair,
America has consistently risen to its greatest hours.
In remembrance of those lives lost on September 11 and to heroes that
emerged on that fateful day, I would like to close with some words from
President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address:
that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause
for which they here gave the last full measure of devotion--that we here
highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this
Nation shall have a new birth of freedom; and that this government of
the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the
Earth.
May God bless America.
Hon. Bob Etheridge
of North Carolina
Mr. Speaker, it's hard to believe that it's been almost a full year
since that awful day. On September 11, 2001, all the world saw the very
face of evil. And on that day and every day since, we have felt the
heartbeat of America.
For me, the most enduring image of 9/11 was the sight of the Pentagon
on fire after the terrorists crashed American Airlines flight 77 into
our Nation's military headquarters. A thick black smoky cloud oozed from
the Pentagon and hung over the banks of the Potomac River. I will never
forget seeing with my own eyes that proud building engulfed in flames.
Then the whole world watched television in stunned disbelief as the Twin
Towers of the World Trade Center came crumbling down in a fiery wreck of
twisted steel.
On that day, America was changed forever. But, the test in life is not
whether or not you ever get knocked down. The true test is whether you
have the courage, pride and determination to get back up again. Every
day since September 11, the people of this country have gotten back up.
We Americans from all walks of life have pulled together like never
before. We have stood united to tell our enemies that the spirit of
America will never be broken. We will not rest until we have eliminated
Osama bin Laden and his terrorist network.
In the year since 9/11, we have come to treasure the service and
sacrifice of ordinary Americans as extraordinarily heroic. The selfless
devotion of the firefighters, police, EMS and other public servants in
New York City and the Pentagon have given us new appreciation for our
hometown heroes whose everyday service does so much to strengthen our
communities. The dedicated professionalism of our men and women in
uniform renew our pride in our country and make us thankful for our
many, many blessings. And the incredible story of the passengers of the
hijacked plane who fought back and prevented the tragic events of that
day from being even worse inspires us all to take charge and give back
to our country.
September 11 taught us anew the immeasurable strength of the uniquely
American ideal of ``We, the people.'' As we memorialize the lives lost 1
year ago, let us also celebrate the renewed spirit of America that has
been reinvigorated by the service and sacrifice of so many ordinary
citizens and inspirational heroes.
Hon. Robert A. Borski
of pennsylvania
Mr. Speaker, and my fellow colleagues of the U.S. Congress, we are
here in the City of New York as representatives of a United States that
is bound together as never before. It is a tragic bond, as it came at a
cost of immeasurable suffering to the people of this great city, and to
those who lost their loved ones in the Pentagon or on flight 93 that
ended in Shanksville, PA. Today we are gathered in remembrance of the
events that pierced our hearts 1 year ago.
On September 11, the terrible and violent acts perpetrated against our
homeland took the lives of so many innocents. In the days after the
attacks, the courage and strength of our rescue workers lifted the
spirits of our Nation. In the weeks and months following, an outpouring
of generosity from every corner of our Nation showed that we stand
together. Thousands lined up to give blood in a gesture that Americans
would share the essence of life with no regard for whom the recipient
might be. The continuing work of the young men and women in our Armed
Forces is a declaration that those responsible for such cowardly acts
will not escape justice. Today, 1 year later, we can say that our wounds
are healing. Our Nation has overcome a great deal, and it is unity that
has helped us overcome our grief.
We, as public servants, have come together to realize an even greater
responsibility to our Nation. These memories are a reminder that we must
remain vigilant while we rebuild and that we must never allow our
greatest treasure, our liberty, to be vulnerable to the will of our
enemies.
We will never forget the innocent victims. We will never forget the
heroes. It is with their memory in our hearts that we live each day with
a greater sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the gifts that
we in this Nation share.
Hon. Peter T. King
of new york
Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride as an American and as a New Yorker
that I commend my colleagues for taking part in this special joint
meeting of Congress in historic Federal Hall.
By meeting in this venerable hall in lower Manhattan--just blocks from
where the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center were destroyed less than
1 year ago--the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have
demonstrated our Government's lasting commitment to the people of New
York. And by fighting back and emerging stronger than ever, New Yorkers
have demonstrated their grit, their courage and their determination. On
September 11, 2001, New York took our enemy's best shot and never
wavered or faltered. The police officers, firefighters and all the
rescue workers who raced into the inferno demonstrated unsurpassed
courage and set the tone and standard for our Nation and the world. Just
as significantly, the families of the brave men and women who were
murdered that day just because they went to work in the World Trade
Center have demonstrated a class and dignity that defy comprehension.
None of us will ever forget where we were or what we were doing when
we first heard the news of the terrorist attacks of September 11--the
attack on the World Trade Center, the attack on the Pentagon and the
bringing down of flight 93 in Pennsylvania by uncommonly heroic
passengers. Nor will we forget how our Nation rallied behind President
Bush as he commanded the war against international terrorism. That war
will be waged on many battlefields and in many ways for many years to
come. But we know that America will prevail. It will prevail in large
part because of the fighting spirit that rose from the flames and smoke
which engulfed lower Manhattan. And it is that spirit that the U.S.
Congress has honored and acknowledged by holding this extraordinary
session in Federal Hall. God bless America.
Hon. Tammy Baldwin
of wisconsin
Mr. Speaker, today we gather here in Federal Hall to honor and
recognize the courage and determination of the survivors of the horrible
terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. It is fitting that we do so.
It was here in Federal Hall that the new Congress of the United States
first met in 1789 to govern our new Nation. It was here in New York that
our Founding Fathers passed the laws that are the foundation for our
democratic political system. From this solid foundation, our Nation has
grown and prospered. Our people have excelled in science, in the
humanities, in art and culture. We have grown to be a great Nation, home
to a great people, with tremendous hopes and incredible dreams for the
future. And it all began right here in Federal Hall.
One year ago, terrorists attacked America. Their targets were not
simply the buildings they destroyed and the people they murdered. They
were attacking the very ideals that define what it means to be an
American. They wanted to drive us apart and make us afraid.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to say that they failed.
Faced with tragedy and destruction, the people of the United States,
and particularly the people of New York, came together as one community.
We gathered the emotional resources to survive and heal, and we pulled
together the financial resources to rebuild. This has not been easy. It
takes incredible courage to move forward after a tragedy like 9/11. But
we did find that courage within ourselves.
That is why it is so fitting that we are here in New York today. One
year after September 11, we are rededicating our Nation. The terrorists
have not won. They have lost. Our Nation is stronger and more united.
Our freedom, our courage, our determination, our unity, our diversity,
our charity and our democracy are our strengths. New York has exhibited
all of these strengths in abundance in the last year. And these
strengths are everywhere in America.
Hon. Jerrold Nadler
of new york
Mr President, Mr. Speaker, today marks a historic occasion for New
York and for the U.S. Congress. This is the first Congress that has
convened here in New York since the First Congress convened here to
watch President Washington take the oath of office and to pass the Bill
of Rights.
We join here today not as Republicans or Democrats, but as Americans.
The symbolic gesture of our joint meeting is both solemn and
celebratory.
It is solemn because we come here today to honor a city devastated by
the most terrible single attack on American soil in our history, and the
thousands of innocent people lost in that attack. As the elected
Representative for the area of New York most directly impacted by the
attacks of September 11, 2001, I can tell you that my constituents are
grateful for the act of solidarity with New York that we show here
today. I can also tell you that they are even more grateful that
Congress has rallied to help this city for the past year.
Our joint meeting today is also celebratory. One year ago, a group of
vicious and heartless terrorists sought to cripple this city and this
country by obliterating one of its great landmarks. It was their hope
that not only would thousands be rendered lifeless, but that our way of
life, our democracy, would be extinguished. Today we celebrate the life
and vibrancy of our democracy that still lives--and do so in a city that
remains the most lively, diverse, and mighty on the face of the Earth,
despite the worst efforts of those terrorists.
It is only right that we seek out those who sought to destroy us. But
bombs and bullets are merely the tools we use in our self-defense.
Revenge against our foes will come not through bloodshed, but through
acts defiant of their goals. For the last year, despite the aim of the
terrorists to kill our national spirit, this Nation has proudly and
defiantly displayed the flag from our homes, our cars, our community
centers, and our houses of worship. Despite the murderous foes who
sought to divide us, our people have joined in concerts celebrating our
country and its ideals, and vigils marking our unity.
Over two centuries ago, after stumbling through a government under the
Articles of Confederation, with most of the world wishing to see our
demise, we gathered here, defiant of the world and its wishes, resolved
to make our great democratic experiment work. It is only fitting then,
that we stand here again defiant of those who wish for our demise. Let
there be no doubt, today we are telling the world that New York lives
on, America lives on, and her ideals live on!
Hon. Randy ``Duke'' Cunningham
of california
Mr. Speaker, 1 year ago, America watched with horror as the tragic
events of September 11 unfolded here in New York City and in our
Nation's Capital. On that morning, already aghast at the attack on the
Twin Towers, I looked out the window of my Capitol Hill office and
gasped in horror as I watched the black smoke billow out of the Pentagon
and drift across the clear blue sky. Still stunned, I was quickly
shuffled out of my office to safety.
Today, as I reflect on the profound loss that our Nation faced in the
midst of these horrific attacks, I am also heartened by the selfless
acts of valor, community spirit, and national unity that have followed
this tragedy. Despite the stresses that our Nation has experienced, the
ties that bind our diverse country together are stronger than ever.
Immediately following the terrorist attacks on America, President Bush
called on all of us to volunteer to bring our country together and
reestablish those local ties that oftentimes are neglected. Americans
responded. The resurgence of commitment to community can be found in our
homes, our houses of worship, our schools, and our workplaces. From New
York City to San Diego, citizens responded with soup kitchens, mentoring
programs and charitable donations of goods and time. And the proud men
and women of the U.S. military responded, allowing our country to take
an aggressive lead in the war on terrorism.
I have heard many stories of outstanding individuals who have gone
above and beyond this call to aid those in their community through
extraordinary service and exemplary acts. While we reflect on the
American spirit, it is also important to highlight the measures we have
taken to prevent future attacks of this magnitude.
The attacks on our Nation were motivated by intolerant and ignorant
individuals seeking to forever change our way of life and destroy this
great Nation. Much like Washington, Adams and Jefferson, we must seek to
ensure that this country remains an example of democracy and freedom--we
must be the patriots of today.
Since September 11, 2001, all levels and branches of government have
cooperated to strengthen aviation and border security, stockpile more
medicines to defend against bioterrorism, improve information sharing
among our intelligence agencies and deploy more resources and personnel
to protect our critical infrastructure.
At the same time, the changing nature of threats to our Nation
requires a new and reformed government structure to protect against
enemies who can strike at any time with any number of weapons. As I
write this column, no single government agency has homeland security as
its primary mission. In fact, responsibilities for homeland security are
dispersed among more than 100 different government organizations.
America needs a unified homeland security structure that will improve
protection against today's threats and be flexible enough to help meet
the unknown threats of the future.
President Bush has proposed the most significant transformation of the
U.S. Government in over a half century by consolidating the current
confusing patchwork of government activities into a single department
called the Department of Homeland Security. Changing threats require a
new government structure to meet these threats. The Department of
Homeland Security will have in one place all the resources needed to do
what it takes to protect our country. The reorganization of America's
homeland security infrastructure is crucial to overcoming the enormous
threat we face today.
The shocking and tragic events of September 11 reminded us of the
frailty of life, but today's special session demonstrates our resilience
and strength in the face of adversity. Thousands went to work on
September 11 thinking about their jobs, their families, their friends--
most likely not contemplating their own mortality. Yet in an instant,
death and injury met them face to face. We must never forget those who
perished, and we honor them again today. We owe it to their memory to
ensure that we never face such a loss again. Regrouping as individuals
and as a nation, we must continue rebuilding, and working to defeat the
terrorists by growing even stronger as a nation.
Hon. Constance A. Morella
of Maryland
Mr. Speaker, a year ago, on September 11, 2001, Americans were faced
with the horrible reality of that day's heinous attacks.
As we gather here today, in the building that served as our Nation's
first Capitol and witnessed the inauguration of our first President, our
blessed Nation stands firm and it stands strong.
Over the past year, Americans have shown those who wished to tear our
country apart that their cowardly actions only brought our Nation closer
together. Here in the place where our democracy was born, we say to the
world that these States of America remain united. We are united by our
values, our communities, and our freedoms. Just as we will never forget
what makes this Nation great, we will never forget the hardships we have
endured. We will always remember September 11.
Even though America has had a year to mourn our losses, we still weep
for the victims of that day. We continue to offer our prayers, our
comfort, and our resolve to those who lost loved ones on that day.
Without question, the attacks of September 11 were a strike against
all nations that value freedom and democracy. It was an act of war, but
we were not to be intimidated. As a Congress, we remain steadfast with
our Nation in the fight against terrorism. American history has always
been defined by the resiliency of our people, and I stand here today to
repeat our solemn pledge to defend freedom and liberty and show that we
will remain resilient no matter what the threat. The freedoms and values
our forefathers gathered in this hall to protect are simply too
sacrosanct to ever be compromised.
Hon. Juanita Millender-McDonald
of California
Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me as a Member of the U.S. Congress to
convene here in New York today, September 6, 2002, on this historic
occasion. It has been 1 year since the tragic terrorist attacks of
September 11. It has been over 200 years since Congress convened here in
New York at Federal Hall to elect the first President of the United
States and to ratify the Bill of Rights.
We applaud the people of this great city and State for their resolve
in light of the devastation thrust upon them. It is a credit to their
perseverance and their total commitment to freedom that the 107th
Congress stands proud today. We reflect with remorse on the past year,
but also look forward with hope and optimism as we proceed in the
healing of our Nation. On this historic day, the Congress has convened
to mourn the loss of families and friends during the September 11
attacks, and to salute the heroism of our police officers, firefighters,
and emergency responders who performed with unbridled bravery and gave
so selflessly on that tragic day.
As I reflect on the tragic events of a year ago, I am reminded of the
heavy hearts of so many great Americans who have grappled with this
cowardly act and of those who had loved ones who perished in New York,
Pennsylvania and the Pentagon. For those who lost friends and coworkers
and who must now try to go on with their lives, our prayers are offered
to these families and their friends and to all America and other
countries who experienced loss.
Today we are expressing our gratitude to the firefighters, police
officers, healthcare workers and those individuals who, on that fateful
day, performed heroic deeds and helped their fellow citizens and
neighbors without regard for their own welfare.
During the recent year, my colleagues and I in Congress have actively
engaged in debate about how to develop an agenda that addresses the new
world in which we now live.
Though our country and the world have been shaken, we continue to
build bridges toward progress and strengthen the bond of patriotism and
the spirit of hope. I cannot express how important it is to map out a
course for our future that will sustain, inspire and protect our
children. We must provide our children with a sense of optimism and
hope.
Our domestic efforts and grief over the tragic events of September 11
have heightened our appreciation for the pain of others around the world
who have been subjected to the brutality and inhumanness of terrorism.
That is why we have supported liberation and democratization efforts in
Afghanistan and seek to assist in the rehabilitation of those persecuted
and those who are attempting to rebuild their lives and their country.
We must complete our mission there.
As we return to Washington, our Nation and its Congress will never
forget the victims of September 11. On this occasion of reflection,
recommitment and rededication to freedom and democracy, we are affirming
our commitment to remember and honor the men and women who paid the
ultimate price--their lives. They will always be a part of our history
and our hearts. Our Nation shall continue to rise to meet the challenge
of terrorism and the threats posed by terrorists who seek to derail
freedom and a Nation of peace.
RECOGNIZING THE HEROISM AND COURAGE DISPLAYED BY AIRLINE FLIGHT
ATTENDANTS EACH DAY
Hon. Thomas E. Petri
of Wisconsin
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent
resolution (H. Con. Res. 401) recognizing the heroism and courage
displayed by airline flight attendants each day, as amended.
The Clerk read as follows:
H. Con. Res. 401
Whereas over 100,000 men and women serve as airline flight attendants
in the United States;
Whereas flight attendants dedicate themselves to serving and
protecting their passengers;
Whereas flight attendants are responsible for customer service aboard
an aircraft;
Whereas flight attendants react to dangerous situations as the first
line of defense of airline passengers;
Whereas safety and security are a flight attendant's primary concerns;
Whereas flight attendants evacuate aircraft in emergency situations;
Whereas flight attendants defend passengers against hijackers,
terrorists, and abusive passengers;
Whereas flight attendants handle in-flight medical emergencies;
Whereas flight attendants perform routine safety and service duties on
board an aircraft;
Whereas 25 flight attendants lost their lives aboard 4 hijacked
flights on September 11, 2001;
Whereas 5 flight attendants helped prevent United Airlines Flight 93
from reaching its intended target on September 11, 2001;
Whereas flight attendants provided assistance to passengers across the
United States who had their flights diverted on September 11, 2001;
Whereas on December 22, 2001, flight attendants helped subdue
attempted shoe bomber, Richard Reid, who attempted to kill all 185
passengers and 12 crew members on board American Airlines Flight 63; and
Whereas on February 7, 2002, flight attendants helped prevent Pablov
Moreira, a Uruguayan citizen, from breaking into the cockpit during
United Airlines Flight 855 from Miami to Buenos Aires: Now, therefore,
be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That
Congress--
(1) expresses profound gratitude to airline flight attendants for
their daily service to make air travel safe;
(2) honors the courage and dedication of flight attendants;
(3) expresses support for the flight attendants who displayed heroism
on September 11, 2001, and to all flight attendants who continue to
display heroism each day; and
(4) directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to send a copy
of this resolution to a family member of each of the flight attendants
killed on September 11, 2001.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. 401,
honoring the over 100,000 men and women who serve as flight attendants.
As we near the final anniversary of the September 11 attacks, I think it
is appropriate that we stop to recognize these everyday heroes.
America's flight attendants dedicated their lives to ensuring the
safety and the security of their passengers. There are over 20,000
commercial airline flights each day, and on these flights, flight
attendants put the well-being of each of their passengers ahead of their
own. They are the first responders to all emergencies in the cabin of an
aircraft. They provide in-flight medical assistance to passengers in
need. They may be the only line of defense should terrorists once again
attempt to take control of an airplane.
It was the flight attendants who subdued attempted shoe bomber Richard
Reid aboard American flight 63 last September. Last year, 25 flight
attendants lost their lives aboard the 4 hijacked flights on September
11. In recognition of their important role, the House overwhelmingly
passed legislation that would significantly increase self-defense and
situational training to aid flight attendants in the case of another
terrorist hijacking.
I would like to express my profound gratitude to all airline flight
attendants for their daily service to make air travel safe and secure,
and urge the passage of this resolution.
Hon. Elijah E. Cummings
of maryland
Mr. Speaker, I, too, want to commend the subcommittee chairman, the
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mica), and the ranking member, the gentleman
from Illinois (Mr. Lipinski), for their action on H. Con. Res. 401 that
recognizes the largely unsung heroism that airline flight attendants
display on a daily basis.
On September 11 of last year, 25 flight attendants lost their lives as
a result of terrorist attacks. When they left their homes and loved ones
that morning, I am sure that none of them knew what tragic events would
unfold before the day's end, and what role they would play in it. Five
flight attendants working on United Airlines flight 93 helped prevent
hijackers from reaching their intended target of Washington, DC. I am
sure that many of us have to give credit to them for perhaps saving our
lives.
Every day a workforce of 100,000 flight attendants make it their
mission to ensure the safety of passengers that rely on them. In the war
on terrorism, they can be compared to ground soldiers. They are our
front line of defense. Not only did flight attendants display acts of
heroism on September 11, but they also have repeatedly reacted
courageously to thwart acts of terrorism on American aircraft.
Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to acknowledge the heroism and bravery of
flight attendants. After September 11, when many were afraid to return
to the air, these courageous workers devotedly returned to their jobs. I
admire their sense of dedication and professional attitude. I urge my
colleagues to support this very appropriate resolution.
Hon. Nick J. Rahall II
of west virginia
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of West Virginians and Americans as a whole, I
want to express our deep appreciation to the flight attendants who
provide outstanding service while ensuring public safety for thousands
of Americans on a daily basis. In addition, I want to commend our
Nation's flight attendants for their acts of heroism. A considerable
number of them demonstrated their great courage during the September 11
attacks that occurred almost exactly 1 year ago today.
It should not be overlooked that in the days, weeks, and months
following that terrible day, America's flight attendants bravely resumed
their duties serving our flying public. This contribution aided the
almost immediate restoration of air service, and it provides a profound
demonstration of this country's refusal to let the terrorists win. Our
flight attendants, and by extension, all of us would not allow a few
evil doers to destroy our daily activities and our unique way of life.
As we approach the anniversary of September 11, we must remember the
contributions of this group of individuals who have so ably demonstrated
their importance to this country and to its citizens. They stand as an
example for the brave efforts of all hard-working Americans as we cope
with the events and the aftermath of that infamous day.
Hon. Rob Simmons
of Connecticut
Mr. Speaker, a great many things changed on September 11, 2001. Among
them, Americans began thinking differently about air travel, and we all
gained a greater respect for those who are pledged to guarantee our
safety as we fly.
For its part, Congress has moved to make air travel safer, and I have
no doubt we will do more. But one of the main lines of defense against
events in the air rests with the pilots and flight crews.
The professionalism, courage and common sense exhibited by these
individuals is clearly exemplified in the actions of Madeline Amy Todd
Sweeney, who was a flight attendant aboard American Airlines flight 11
on September 11. That was the first aircraft to crash into the World
Trade Center.
Showing courage under pressure, Amy was one of the first individuals
to use a cell phone and notify the world of the hijackings that were
under way. Her last acts of bravery were critically important in
identifying and exposing those terrorists who threatened our lives, our
country and our values.
Ms. Sweeney is a true American hero. She was many things to many
wonderful people, a faithful wife, a loving mother, and a devoted
daughter. But she will be remembered by most Americans for her
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty on a fateful day.
Consider this--those who hijacked American Airlines flight 11 had
years of training and preparation for their terrible mission. They had
plenty of time to consider what they were going to do. But for Amy, the
decisions of a lifetime were compressed into a few terrible minutes. Yet
she responded with tremendous courage, calmness and common sense. She
did her duty in the face of death. And at the last moment, she called
out to God for salvation.
I had the honor earlier this year to attend a ceremony in
Massachusetts where she became the first individual to be awarded the
``Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery.'' It is in
recognition of Amy Todd Sweeney's heroism and courageous spirit that
this award was created.
Future recipients--awarded annually on the anniversary of her death--
must demonstrate exceptional bravery, without regard for personal
safety, in an effort to save the life or lives of another or others in
actual or imminent danger. It is a fitting tribute to her conduct that
this award has been established. There can be little doubt that many
people are alive today because of her quick thinking and her heroism.
Her actions remind us that courage is rightly esteemed as the first of
human qualities because it is the quality that guarantees all others.
And we should remember that courage does not mean an absence of fear,
because without fear there can be no courage. Courage is doing the thing
you think you cannot do.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the Record a recent
article from the New London Day entitled, ``A Hero on Flight 11, She Put
Her Job First: Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney.''
May God bless and keep you, Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney, and may God
bless America.
A Hero on flight 11, She Put Her Job First: Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney
9-11: The Shadow Of A Day
(By Bethe Defresne)
Once the extended family of Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney verified that
she was aboard the flight, there was no waiting for a miracle. There was
no use praying that the blond, blue-eyed young mother with the dazzling
smile had been caught in some pocket of hope within the ashes of the
World Trade Center, and that somehow she would rise up and come home to
them.
Relatives and friends of victims who worked in the towers would spend
days or even weeks holding off the inevitable. But for Sweeney's loved
ones, there was only the swift, burning onslaught of grief.
She was a flight attendant on American Airlines flight 11, the plane
that hit the North Tower at 8:48 a.m. on Sept. 11, when the world still
thought it must have been some terrible accident.
Sweeney's colleagues in air control back at Logan International
Airport in Boston, where the flight had taken off that morning bound for
Los Angeles, were among the few who knew better--because she had told
them.
Calmly, and with painstaking attention to detail, Sweeney had
explained that the plane was being hijacked. What she said would later
help Federal investigators reconstruct how the plane was taken over.
Sweeney reported the seat numbers of the hijackers, including
suspected ringleader Mohamed Atta, and the progress of their assault.
She described the landscape below after the flight was diverted, right
up until the shocking end.
Her last words were, ``I see water and building. Oh my God! Oh my
God!''
Sweeney's father, William A. Todd of Norwich, expects that some day
he'll listen to a tape of conversations from the airplane. But he's not
ready.
This Sept. 11, Todd will be in Boston, the point of Sweeney's
departure, not New York, the site of her tragic end, to mark the
anniversary of the terrorist attacks. There he will witness the
presentation of the second annual Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney Award for
Civilian Bravery, posthumously presented to her in February with her
family in attendance.
Sweeney lived in Acton, Mass., with her husband, Michael, and their
two children, Anna, 6, and Jack, 5. The award, in the form of a
medallion, is to be given each year to a Massachusetts resident who
exemplifies the courage that Sweeney displayed.
Her reports from the doomed airplane have been credited with helping
officials make the crucial decision to ground all airplanes on Sept. 11,
perhaps saving many lives.
It's good, Todd acknowledged, to have something to do and somewhere to
go on this grim anniversary. And he really didn't want to be in New
York.
``It's too much,'' he says.
Mike Sweeney, who could not be reached, is reportedly coping as best
he can, and also plans to be at the presentation in Boston on Wednesday.
Reflecting today on what enabled his 35-year-old daughter to show such
remarkable strength under intense pressure, Todd draws upon an apt and
familiar analogy, that of a soldier in battle. As an Army war veteran
who saw combat in Korea, Todd, 65, says his daughter was doing what she
was trained to do in a situation like that: focus not on yourself, but
on your job.
Todd treasures an American flag carried in Sweeney's honor aboard an
F-16CG Falcon during a Jan. 26 combat mission over Afghanistan. The flag
was sent to him along with a citation from the 332d Air Expedition
Group, called ``The Tip of the Spear,'' certifying that the flag was
carried ``In Memory of the Grace and Bravery of Madeline Amy Todd
Sweeney, who lost her life to a terrorist attack on the WTC while
serving on American Airlines flight 11 on Sept. 11, 2001.''
Todd hasn't decided yet where to display the flag, which he handles
reverently, like a flag that has been draped over a soldier's coffin. It
was a nephew in the Air Force, Patrick Todd, who arranged through his
commanding officer to have the flag carried and delivered.
Sweeney came from a large extended family, with numerous aunts, uncles
and cousins. She reveled in those myriad relationships, said Todd, and
will be especially missed at the Sept. 28 wedding of her brother,
William Todd III, who lives in Massachusetts. He was her only sibling.
Sitting at the kitchen table in his home on Corning Road, Todd, who
retired after 15 years as a welder at Electric Boat in Groton, appears
to take some comfort in thinking about the lasting impression his
daughter's life has made on others. But he is not a man given to
displaying an excess of emotion.
``What can you say?'' he asks. ``Not a day goes by that I don't think
of her.''
Tears well up in his tired eyes, but he won't let them go. His wife of
23 years, Doris, is more talkative and openly emotional. Sweeney was
like a daughter to her, she says, although they only got together on
visits, mostly during the summer. Todd and his first wife divorced when
Sweeney was 10, and she continued to live with her mother in Nashua,
N.H.
It's not very difficult for family members to imagine what Sweeney,
whom everyone called Amy, would have been doing this past year had she
not been among the 3,008 victims of Sept. 11. She would have continued
to love being a wife and mother, kept in close touch with her large
circle of friends and family, and, of course, kept on flying.
The 12-year veteran of American Airlines was at a point in life where,
it seems, she had everything she wanted. ``She loved to fly, and she
loved to travel,'' says Todd. She especially relished trips to the
Caribbean.
The flight to Los Angeles was also one of her favorites, Todd says,
because she got a layover in California.
After Sweeney graduated from high school, before she married and went
to flight attendant school, she took a year off to live and travel in
California, says Todd. This was her one real fling with being totally
carefree.
But shouldering responsibility was something Sweeney apparently did
willingly, with a modest touch that endeared her to family, friends and
colleagues, as well as passengers.
She was ``a natural at being a flight attendant'' wrote one of her
peers in a tribute booklet put out by American Airlines and given to all
the families of those who died on flight 11. She was a genuine people
person, it was said, always the first to volunteer when help was needed.
In her heroic death, Sweeney is forever linked with one colleague in
particular, fellow flight attendant Betty Ong. The two women worked as a
team to alert ground officials about what was happening.
The Todds have a tape of a ``Prime Time'' TV segment on the two women,
hosted by Diane Sawyer. Sweeney's husband, Mike, is featured along with
several members of Ong's family. So, too, are home videos of Sweeney
playing and singing with her children.
But most of the program is devoted to what happened on flight 11.
Doris Todd cries softly, and her husband sits stoically upright in his
chair, as a Logan flight manager who got the first call recounts his
conversations with Sweeney. ``Amy, honey,'' he began, ``what's going
on?''
Everything after that was dark--throats slashed, orders from
hijackers--but Sweeney remained purposeful and calm through it all.
The Todds find this tape difficult to watch, but say they've looked at
it several times. During the program, the Ong family reports that a bone
and a flesh fragment from Betty Ong were recovered from the WTC site.
``Nothing was found of Amy,'' says Todd, not even a bit of DNA. But
this is not something to dwell on, he says. He'd rather hold the flag
that was carried over a battlefield in her honor, or point out the sign
in her memory attached to his truck, the one he drove in the June parade
for ``A Reason to Ride,'' an organization that raises funds for disabled
and homeless veterans.
There's been talk, Todd says, that Sweeney and some other Sept. 11
heroes might be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons, R-2d District, and Sen. Edward Kennedy of
Massachusetts are among those who have proposed Sweeney for the
prestigious award.
The Todds haven't gotten involved in the debate over what kind of
memorial should be erected at Ground Zero, but they do have two thoughts
on the subject. ``It should be tall,'' they say. ``And it should have
all the names, like the Vietnam War Memorial.''
Sweeney didn't have enough information in that early hour of Sept. 11
to go on the offensive, like the crew and passengers of United flight
93, forced down in a field in Pennsylvania. But she died in service to
her passengers and, it turned out, to her country.
It's almost impossible to find a source of gratitude in the horror of
Sept. 11. But the Todds say they're at least glad to know that almost to
the last moment Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney was not living in terror, but
helping others.
PETER J. GANCI, JR. POST OFFICE BUILDING
Hon. Jo Ann Davis
of Virginia
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5336)
to designate the facility of the U.S. Postal Service located at 380 Main
Street in Farmingdale, NY, as the ``Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Post Office
Building.''
The Clerk read as follows:
H.R. 5336
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United
States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. PETER J. GANCI POST OFFICE BUILDING.
(a) Designation.--The facility of the United States Postal Service
located at 380 Main Street in Farmingdale, New York, shall be known and
designated as the ``Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Post Office Building''.
(b) References.--Any reference in a law, map, regulation, document,
paper, or other record of the United States to the facility referred to
in subsection (a) shall be deemed to be a reference to the Peter J.
Ganci, Jr. Post Office Building.
Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5336, introduced by our distinguished colleague from
New York (Mr. King), designates a post office in Farmingdale, NY, as the
Peter J. Ganci, Jr., Post Office Building. Members of the entire House
delegation from the State of New York are cosponsors of this
legislation.
Mr. Speaker, on September 11, immediately after a jet struck the first
tower at the World Trade Center, Peter Ganci, chief of department for
the New York City Fire Department, rushed to the scene from his command
post in downtown Brooklyn and started the rescue effort.
He was in the basement of tower one when it collapsed. Miraculously,
he survived, dug himself out of the rubble and went back to work.
It then became apparent that the second tower would fall. Ganci, as
the highest ranking uniformed officer on the scene, directed everyone to
clear out of the area, but Ganci did not himself leave while his men
were inside the tower. Ganci said, ``I'm not leaving my men,'' and
advanced toward the towers to continue his life's work of saving and
protecting others.
Chief Ganci was in the basement of the second tower when it collapsed.
Prior to joining the New York City Fire Department, Ganci served in
the Farmingdale Fire Department as a volunteer and in the 82d Airborne
Division. Ganci served in the New York Fire Department for 33 years and
was decorated repeatedly for bravery.
Ganci is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his sons, Christopher and
Peter; and his daughter, Danielle. His son, Peter Ganci III, now serves
with Ladder Company 111 of the New York City Fire Department.
Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of H.R. 5336.
Hon. Danny K. Davis
of Illinois
As a member of the House Committee on Government Reform, I am pleased
to join my colleague today in the consideration of two postal naming
bills: H.R. 5336, introduced by the gentleman from New York (Mr. King),
which names a post office in Farmingdale, NY, after Peter Ganci; and
H.R. 4797, introduced by the gentleman from California (Mr. Becerra),
which names a post office in Los Angeles, CA, after Nat King Cole. These
measures have the support of their respective State congressional
delegations to name U.S. postal facilities after very deserving
individuals, and I urge their swift passage.
H.R. 5336, to designate the facility of the U.S. Postal Service
located at 380 Main Street in Farmingdale, NY, as the Peter J. Ganci,
Jr., Post Office Building, was introduced by the gentleman from New York
(Mr. King) on September 5, 2002.
An American hero, Peter J. Ganci was the New York City Fire
Department's highest ranking chief who died when the World Trade Center
came down. Chief Ganci had been on the radio in front of the trade
center directing the rescue efforts when the building collapsed.
Who was Chief Ganci? He was 54 years old and a resident of Massapequa,
NY; the chief of the department, one of the highest ranking uniformed
officers in the fire department; husband to Kathleen; father to Peter
III, Christopher and Danielle. He was also a 33-year-old veteran of the
New York Fire Department, whose son Peter is a firefighter assigned to
Ladder Company 111 in Brooklyn, NY, and Brooklyn, NY, is the place where
Peter Ganci got his start in 1960.
After serving in engine and ladder companies, Mr. Ganci rose to
lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, deputy chief and then acting
chief. He also ran the Bureau of Fire Investigation, and was appointed
the chief of operations prior to becoming chief of the department.
A hands-on man, Chief Ganci was doing his job, commanding the rescue
operations at the New York World Trade Center.
Accordingly, I urge swift passage of this bill and commend my
colleague for seeking to honor Chief Peter J. Ganci, Jr., in this
matter.
Hon. Peter T. King
of New York
Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to rise today in support of this
legislation. Pete Ganci was a constituent of mine. He was an individual
who personified the leadership and the bravery which resulted last
September 11 in the greatest rescue operation in the history of this
country.
Twenty-five thousand people were rescued that day, and it was done
primarily through the efforts of the New York City Fire Department, and
Chief Pete Ganci was the chief of the department, who was also the
highest ranking uniformed officer ever to die in the line of duty, and
as the gentlewoman pointed out, Chief Ganci was there that day with his
men. Chief Ganci was there in the line of duty.
Chief Ganci was there directing the operation against this horrific
attack that was carried out against our country, and when the first
tower fell, Chief Ganci barely escaped with his life, and when he saw
the terrible carnage that resulted and saw the terrible danger which was
still being faced by the North Tower, which had not yet fallen, Chief
Ganci ordered the entire operation to be moved north.
As the entire operation, including the mayor and other officials, went
north, Pete Ganci went south to be with his men, and that personified
the type of leadership which Pete Ganci gave in the New York City Fire
Department. As the gentlewoman pointed out, he had been a member of the
department more than 33 years, rising to the highest office in that
department, chief of the department. Prior to that, he had been a
paratrooper in the 82d Airborne, and until his death, he was an active
member of the Farmingdale Volunteer Fire Department in New York.
Mr. Speaker, at this point also, before I digress, though, I want to
pay a special debt of thanks to Sal Pontillo, the Nassau County
legislator who represents the district in which Mr. Ganci lived in
Nassau County, and he has come to me with this request. We have worked
closely on it, and he has also served as liaison with the Ganci family
and helped to bring this about.
Mr. Speaker, many of us look back on the date of September 11 and we
realize what a turning point it was in the history of our country. It
was a turning point for many reasons. The point I would like to focus on
today is that after that attack, actually as the attack was going on, as
the buildings were burning, as the buildings were coming down, as people
were being killed, as people were being rescued, what the eyes of the
world and the eyes of the country saw was the valor of the New York City
firefighters and police officers, those who were carrying out this
rescue operation under the most trying circumstances, and the person who
was leading that operation was Chief Ganci. Just think what would have
happened if he had not done what he did, if the firefighters had not
responded the way they did, instead of running into the building, Chief
Ganci had run out of the building and kept going. On the contrary, he
went right back in the line of fire, the battlefield commander who died
with his men. It was that type of courage that was shown that day, that
type of heroism that was shown that day, that type of spirit that was
shown that day which I think has inspired our country to fight back, to
come back and to win this war against international terrorism, and even
just as important, to show that America cannot be vanquished, that we
can take the best shot of the enemy and come back stronger than ever.
That is what Chief Ganci personified that day. In fact, it is the type
of story that if somebody had produced a movie about it, it would not
have been believed, for a person to be there when the first tower came
down and somehow survive it and go back in and to be killed in the
second tower, which to me is the type of courage that I cannot even
begin to fathom.
This was the first battle, Mr. Speaker, and the first great war of the
21st century, and Chief Ganci died as a battlefield commander in that
war, and for that, this country owes him its untiring thanks and
gratitude for all that he has done.
I want to say a special debt of thanks to his wife, Kathy, who has
shown tremendous courage throughout this entire 363 days; his son, Pete,
who is a member of the New York City Fire Department; his son, Chris;
and his daughter, Danielle.
I also want to thank the other 30 members of the New York delegation
for unanimously supporting this resolution. To me, it is just another
indication of the tremendous regard that all the men and women of the
New York City Fire Department had for Chief Ganci and, indeed, all of
the members of the New York delegation, everyone who had the opportunity
to know Chief Ganci.
I can say I was at his funeral last September 15. It was one of the
most moving moments I have ever been involved in, to see the tremendous
outpouring of support from his community in North Massapequa and
Farmingdale, all of the surrounding community, by the thousands, coming
out to join in this salute to Chief Pete Ganci.
So, Mr. Speaker, with that I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me the
time. I thank the House for considering this resolution today, and I
extend my very best thoughts, prayers and gratitude to the Ganci family
for all they have gone through.
Hon. Jo Ann Davis
of Virginia
I thank my colleague for introducing this legislation to honor the
chief of the New York City Fire Department. As the wife of a
professional firefighter for almost 30 years, I know the bravery that
these firefighters have, and I have had people tell me why they let
chiefs send men in there to their deaths, and I have told them quite
clearly, if he would not have sent them in, I know the firefighters
would have gone in anyway. That is just the type of bravery they do
have, and again, I thank my colleagues, and I urge adoption of this
resolution.
RECOGNIZING ROSELLE, MICHAEL HINGSON'S GUIDE DOG, FOR HER BRAVERY AT
WORLD TRADE CENTER ON SEPTEMBER 11
Hon. Lynn C. Woolsey
of california
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Roselle, a yellow Labrador dog,
whose bravery on September 11 as she led her blind owner Michael Hingson
from the World Trade Center is an inspiration.
Michael and Roselle have become well known as representatives of the
power of the human-animal bond to build a trust that can carry them
through even the greatest tragedy.
Michael was working on the 78th floor of the World Trade Center when
the building was struck. After making sure everyone in the office was
evacuated safely, Roselle and Michael began the long descent down the
stairwell. Despite the heat and smoke, they calmly made their way from
the building and started running for the subway as tower two began to
collapse. In the subway, Roselle guided Michael and another woman down
the stairs and led Michael to the home of a friend in mid-Manhattan.
Michael has traveled with a dog from Guide Dogs for the Blind for 37
years. Roselle's ability to lead, and Michael's to command, under such
difficult circumstances embodies the success of the lifelong
partnerships developed through this program.
Mr. Speaker, Roselle's story demonstrates that there were many kinds
of bravery on September 11, 2001. It is appropriate to honor the bond
that enabled her to save the life of Michael Hingson.
REFLECTIONS ON AMERICA
Hon. Joseph M. Hoeffel
of pennsylvania
Mr. Speaker, recently, as the 1-year anniversary of September 11
approached, I looked back over the statement I released the day after
the attacks occurred. As I read the statement that was issued even as
the smoke and dust still billowed over lower Manhattan, the Pentagon and
a field in rural Pennsylvania, I was struck by how easy it was to write
some of the words and how difficult it was to write others.
It was tremendously difficult to put into words my feelings of
disbelief and anger over the insane acts of 19 individuals and their
supporters. It still is. It was heartrending to try to voice the sorrow
and sympathy I felt for the victims and their families. And that, too,
is still difficult.
It was not difficult, however to write the words of hope, pride and
conviction I had for this country and its people on September 12. And,
today, a year later, I am happy to report that the hope, pride and
conviction were well-founded. On September 12, 2001 1 wrote, in part:
As I walked to work across the Capitol grounds this morning, a day
after the attacks, I was struck as I often am by the incredible beauty
of the U.S. Capitol Building. The dome was shining a brilliant white
against a clear blue sky on a beautiful late summer day. I realized that
the glorious dome, such a symbol of the strength and stability of our
country, might well have been the final target of the ill-fated fourth
hijacked plane.
The simple truth is that even if a terrorist act had destroyed the
dome, or if a thousand terrorist acts had obliterated the entire
Capital, America would still be standing firm as it is today.
In the past year, we have cried and cursed. We have opened our hearts
and our wallets. We have buried our dead and we continue to heal our
wounded and sorrowful. We have cleared the debris and begun to rebuild.
Our President has led, and Congress has indeed stood shoulder to
shoulder with him in support. Our soldiers have fought bravely and we
here at home have done what we do best--we went back to work.
We will never again look at the world in the same way. We are sadder.
We are wiser. We are closer. And, as I said a year ago, we are still
standing firm. We've been through a lot. There will be tough times
ahead, but today I have even a stronger feeling of hope, pride and
conviction in our country and its people.
God bless America.
H. CON. RES. 401, RECOGNIZING THE HEROISM AND COURAGE DISPLAYED BY
AIRLINE FLIGHT ATTENDANTS EACH DAY
Hon. Nancy Pelosi
of california
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 401, a resolution to
recognize the heroism and courage displayed by airline flight attendants
each day.
The anniversary of the September 11 terrorist hijackings and attacks
on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon is just 2 days away. All
Americans remember and mourn the lives lost that tragic day.
The world has changed for all of us. Before that time, flight
attendants and their families and loved ones lived and worked with the
knowledge that rare instances of mechanical failure or hijackers could
endanger their lives. But no one imagined the dreadful assault of
September 11, when terrorists turned four airborne planes into missiles
used to attack thousands of Americans.
That day, flight attendants again demonstrated their courage in the
face of extreme danger. From all that we know of the final minutes on
those flights, flight attendants worked to communicate with the ground,
and in all likelihood helped prevent flight 93, which crashed in rural
Pennsylvania, from taking many more lives.
I would like to bring my colleagues' attention to the heroism of Betty
Ong, a flight attendant on American Airlines flight 11, whose family
lives in my district of San Francisco. On September 11, Betty called the
airline reservations center from the plane to sound the alarm and
provide information about the terrorists who had taken over the plane. I
am aware of the enormous pain and suffering her family has been
experiencing and extend them my deepest sympathy. It is an honor to pay
tribute to Betty and express my appreciation for her life and bravery in
the face of enormous danger.
Now, even stepping onto an airplane is an act requiring will power and
courage for many Americans. Yet flight attendants do it every day.
Flight attendants deserve our respect, cooperation, courtesy, and
commendation for their hard work and courage. I urge my colleagues to
vote for this resolution.
PRINTING OF PROCEEDINGS OF SPECIAL CEREMONIAL MEETING OF UNITED STATES
CONGRESS HELD IN FEDERAL HALL, NEW YORK, NY, ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2002
Hon. Richard K. Armey
of Texas
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that proceedings of the special
ceremonial meeting of the U.S. Congress held in Federal Hall, New York,
NY, on September 6, 2002, be printed in the Record, and that all Members
have 5 legislative days to insert their remarks on the topic of the
ceremonial meeting.
Tuesday, September 10, 2002
REMEMBERING SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
Hon. Mike Pence
of Indiana
Madam Speaker, to state the obvious, tomorrow is September 11 again.
Like many Americans, I will be home taking time with family and
neighbors for a solemn reflection, remembrance and prayer, and so it
should be for all Americans. But my earnest hope, Madam Speaker, is that
September 11 of this year not be an anxious time; that in addition to
remembering the lost, we actually, Madam Speaker, have much to
commemorate.
In the past 12 months, our people have responded with selfless actions
of courage and generosity, our military has responded with valor, our
President with moral clarity and purpose, and this Congress, Republicans
and Democrats alike, have responded with resources and reform.
America is better prepared and safer this September 11 than the last.
Let us also be confident in this, that He who sets this pilgrim's dream
on this wilderness shore still watches over us. And I say like Americans
have said throughout generations, I lift up my eyes to the hills, and
where does my help come from, my help comes from the Lord.
AMERICANS URGED TO REMEMBER SEPTEMBER 11
Hon. Nick Smith
of Michigan
Madam Speaker, this week it is important to remember those who lost
their lives during the attack on America last year, as well as all of
our first responders, our medics, our military personnel, and the people
who volunteered and tried to help.
I think our Founding Fathers would be very proud of our new diligence
in our quest to preserve liberty and freedom in this country. President
Bush has designated September 11 of each year to be Patriot Day, and
calls on all Americans to observe it appropriately.
I urge my Michigan citizens and all Americans to spend some time
thinking about what we need to do to protect our liberty and freedom,
and to pray for the families of those that died in the terrorist attack
in Pennsylvania, Washington and New York. This Wednesday marks the 1-
year anniversary. Let us remember what our forefathers did, and what
happened to us 1 year ago and our renewed vigor to make sure that we do
what is important to sacrifice ourselves in the preservation of liberty
and freedom.
Hon. Vito Fossella
of New york
Every day and especially tomorrow, September 11, 2002, we honor the
heroes and the victims who perished last year, our fellow American
citizens, those who just want an ordinary way of life, a peaceful life,
who sought to raise a family in this great Nation, who sought to do a
job and do it right, and those valiant heroes from EMS and the police
department and the port authority and especially the firefighters, 78 of
whom were from Staten Island alone, and names like Egan and Olsen and
Curatola and Esposito and Siller and Leahy and Doyle, and tragically
thousands of others. They are names, yes, but they are families. They
have left behind children, they have left behind wives, husbands,
parents, and grandparents, and what they were seeking is all what I
think we are all about, the right to live in freedom with liberty and in
peace, and that was robbed from them. It was robbed from their families.
And, yes, we are a stronger and better country, and we are fortunate to
have brave men and women to wear the uniform to go get those people,
wherever they may be across the globe, with the Commander in Chief,
President Bush, leading the way.
REMEMBERING THOSE KILLED ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
Hon. Sheila Jackson-Lee
of Texas
Mr. Speaker, in a solemn way I recognize that this week will be a week
that Americans turn toward each other seeking to embrace and seeking to
love, mourning those whom we lost on September 11, 2001, and celebrating
the unsung heroes and the families who have survived.
I stand before this House today simply to offer my deepest sympathy
and that of my constituents of the 18th Congressional District of the
State of Texas to all of those who experience this great loss as we come
upon September 11, 2002. It is my desire to offer these words of
sympathy because I love you and appreciate the sacrifice you made for
this Nation. I conclude by saying, The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not
want.
PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS
Under clause 2 of rule XII, public bills and resolutions were
introduced and severally referred, as follows:
By Mr. WILSON of South Carolina:
H. Con. Res. 463. Concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the
Congress that on September 11, 2002, the people of the United States
should reaffirm the principles for which the Nation was founded so that
freedom may ring from every community in the Nation and be heard around
the world; to the Committee on Government Reform.
RECOGNIZING LOCAL HEROES ON SEPTEMBER 11
Hon. Frank R. Wolf
of virginia
Mr. Speaker, as our Nation approaches the 1-year anniversary of the
unspeakable acts of terror against America on September 11, 2001, I join
with my colleagues, Representative Tom Davis and Representative Jim
Moran to recognize some of the people in the northern Virginia area who
were among the first health care responders to the attack on the
Pentagon.
We attended on September 3 an event recognizing those associated with
the Inova Health System for their heroic efforts on September 11, and I
share today the remarks of Jolene Tornabeni, executive vice president
and chief operating officer for Inova Health System, as well as a copy
of a resolution adopted by the Virginia General Assembly commending
Inova Health System.
Recognizing Inova's Heroes
(By Jolene Tornabeni)
As we approach the anniversary of September 11, no doubt every one of
us can remember where we were and what we were doing when the planes
crashed in New York, Pennsylvania and the Pentagon. Throughout Inova
Health System, the memories of that day remain fresh in our memories as
well. At a time when most people wanted to be home with their families
and loved ones, our staff showed its true strength of character.
Hundreds of employees, nurses and physicians dropped what they were
doing and volunteered to help. It was an immediate response that came
from the heart.
Today, I'd like to recognize just some of those people who are Inova's
heroes.
From Inova Alexandria Hospital.--Shortly after the American Airlines
plane hit the Pentagon, hospital staff swung into gear readying beds,
operating rooms and supplies. Inova Alexandria Hospital treated more
patients from the Pentagon that day than any other Inova facility,
caring for 24 people who were injured at the scene.
Among the many heroes that day are Emergency Department chairman Dr.
Marty Brown, vice chairman Dr. Tom Clark and the ER staff who were at
the front end of caring for the patients as they arrived at the
hospital. Dr. Clark cared for Virginia State Police Trooper Michael
Middleton who sustained severe smoke inhalation while trying to rescue
injured Pentagon workers. In addition, emergency nurse Sherry Hemby is
also with us today.
I'd like to recognize pulmonologist Dr. Tom Smirniotopolous and nurse
Ellen Smith. They both cared for Trooper Middleton during his long
recovery at Inova Alexandria Hospital.
Also, emergency physician Dr. James Vafier. On September 11, he was
working in his role as medical director for the Alexandria Fire
Department at the Pentagon. On site, he was appointed the physician in
charge of civilian medical response at the Pentagon.
Keeping order that day at Inova Alexandria Hospital were Steve Fuoco,
the director of engineering, who served the hospital's command center,
and Greg Brison, director of security. I'd also like to recognize
hospital administrator Ken Kozloff for all of his efforts and a job well
done by his entire staff.
All told, Inova treated 27 patients on September 11. Inova Mount
Vernon hospital treated one injured civilian. Our thanks go out to
hospital Emergency Department chairman Dr. Michael Shuster and hospital
administrator Susan Herbert.
Many thanks also go to the emergency department staffs at Inova
HealthPlex in Springfield where two patients were treated, and the staff
of Inova Fairfax Hospital. As the area's level I trauma center, Inova
Fairfax Hospital freed up dozens of hospital beds and readied itself to
handle many, many patients that day. Sadly, their services were not
needed.
Next, I'd like to recognize Dr. Dan Hanfling, the director of
Emergency Management and Disaster Medicine for Inova Health System. On
September 11, Dan was called to the Pentagon to assist in the search and
rescue in his role as medical team manager of the Fairfax County Urban
Search and Rescue team--which falls under the auspices of FEMA--the
Federal Emergency Management Agency. Dan spent a week at the Pentagon
helping coordinate the Federal response to the disaster. Since 9/11, Dan
has helped spearhead and focus Inova's disaster preparations across our
system of hospitals and emergency care centers.
Dan also serves as the medical director of Inova AirCare, our medevac
helicopter program which played a critical role at the Pentagon on
September 11. Minutes after the Pentagon was hit, the helicopter flight
crew of nurse Margie Roche, paramedic Chuck Crocker and pilot Pete
Russet flew to the Pentagon to fly out the injured patients. That
initial flight is memorialized forever in a well-publicized Reuters
photo seen around the world in magazines and now a book. The photo
depicts Inova AirCare against the backdrop of a burning Pentagon.
The helicopter shuttled much needed supplies to the scene that day,
and, at the request of military leaders on the scene, remained at the
Pentagon throughout the night.
As that day unfolded, the community's good will became abundantly
evident as hundreds of people showed up at Inova Blood Donor Services'
offices ready to roll up their sleeves and donate. Thanks to the
leadership of medical director Dr. Jeanne Lumadue and administrative
director Terri Craddock, Inova Blood Donor Services pulled in volunteers
to help handle the onslaught and keep the offices open well past normal
business hours. They collected more than 700 units of blood that day,
which is just amazing. In all, they handled more than 2,000 donors and
returned more than 5,000 calls from interested donors in the initial
days after the attack.
It was not long after September 11 that our country faced a second
threat to our sense of security in the anthrax-laced letters mailed
around the country. Inova Fairfax Hospital took center stage in this
national drama after diagnosing two patients from the Brentwood Postal
Facility in Washington, D.C., with inhalation anthrax.
Emergency physicians Cecele Murphy and Denis Pauze relied on their
instinct and medical training to make a diagnosis most doctors could not
imagine making in their lifetimes. Thanks to them, and to physician
assistant Ashna Nayyar and the entire ER staff, both men are alive
today.
All of these people mentioned today and, in fact, all of the
physicians, employees and volunteers throughout Inova Health System, are
our heroes for the work they did on September 11 and its aftermath.
We also have heroes outside of our organization in the men and women
of our community's police, fire and EMS agencies, particularly in
Fairfax County and the City of Alexandria.
Over the past year, we have been grateful for their continual support
and advice on preparedness.
H
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 275--ENROLLED
Commending Inova Health System
Agreed to by the Senate, March 6, 2002
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, March 8, 2002
Whereas, Inova Health System in Northern Virginia was deeply involved
in the response to the attacks on September 11, 2001, and in the
diagnosis and treatment of those exposed to anthrax in October of 2001;
and
Whereas, on September 11, Inova Health System treated 27 patients
injured in the attack on the Pentagon at its Alexandria, Mount Vernon,
and Franconia-Springfield facilities; and
Whereas, within moments of the crash at the Pentagon, Inova AirCare
was on the scene to transport patients, and AirCare 2, the system's
back-up helicopter, transported needed supplies to the scene for use in
patient triage; and
Whereas, Inova Blood Donor Services collected more than 2,000 units of
blood in the first week following the attacks, and a portion of the
donations were sent to New York and New Jersey to help injured patients;
and
Whereas, the Inova Institute of Research and Education contacted the
Food and Drug Administration to allow usage of a new drug--in its final
phase of testing--in a successful attempt to save the life of Virginia
State Police Trooper Michael Middleton; and
Whereas, more than a month after the September 11 attacks, Inova
Health System played a leading role in the initial diagnosis and
treatment of patients exposed to anthrax at the Brentwood Postal
Facility; and
Whereas, Inova Fairfax Hospital emergency room physician Cecele Murphy
diagnosed the first inhalation anthrax patient on October 19, 2001,
before the source of the anthrax was known; and
Whereas, within two days, the hospital diagnosed the second anthrax
case, and Inova physicians soon developed protocols for hospitals to
follow in screening postal workers and other potential inhalation
anthrax cases; and
Whereas, in collaboration with infectious disease specialists from
Kaiser Permanente, Inova physicians published an anthrax case study in
the Journal of the American Medical Association, an article that was
published faster than any other case study in the journal's history; and
Whereas, Inova Fairfax Hospital held three press conferences to
educate the public on key anthrax information, including the fact that
it is not contagious and that patients in and visitors to hospitals are
safe; and
Whereas, Inova Health System continued to take the lead in producing
and distributing anthrax information to inform the public via
information hotlines, websites, the press, and public meetings; and
Whereas, throughout the turbulent Fall of 2001, the medical
professionals and staff of Inova Health System responded to emergency
situations with great dispatch, diligence, courage, and professionalism;
now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the
General Assembly hereby commend Inova Health System for its quick and
effective response to the events of September 11 and the anthrax
incidents in October 2001; and, be it
Resolved further, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this
resolution for presentation to Inova Health System as an expression of
the General Assembly's admiration and gratitude for its dedication to
the health and welfare of the citizens of Northern Virginia.
Wednesday, September 11, 2002
SESSION BEGINS--PRAYER
The House met at noon.
The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. Coughlin, offered the following
prayer:
Remembering the images of September 11 a year ago can still stun a
nation. A reflection of that tragic day and the thousands who were taken
from us can still take the breath away of some. Others feel nothing,
only emptiness. Others have moved on and celebrate the distance. Today a
moment of common silence can unite us all in a deeper sense of presence.
Because words have their own spin to such an overwhelming story as
this past year. Silence alone is free enough to embrace all traditions
and all sentiments, drawing out a language of the heart.
Only silence can interpret some of the most sacred moments of a
lifetime. So let memories flow and prayers arise in the soul of America
as we enter unafraid the mystery of what has happened to us in silence.
Amen.
MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE
A message from the Senate by Mr. Monahan, one of its clerks, announced
that the Senate has passed without amendment a bill of the House of the
following title:
H.R. 3917. An Act to authorize a national memorial to commemorate the
passengers and crew of Flight 93 who, on September 11, 2001,
courageously gave their lives thereby thwarting a planned attack on our
Nation's Capital, and for other purposes.
The message also announced that the Senate has passed bills of the
following titles in which the concurrence of the House is requested:
S. 2136. An act to establish a memorial in the State of Pennsylvania
to honor the passengers and crewmembers of Flight 93 who, on September
11, 2001, gave their lives to prevent a planned attack on the Capital of
the United States.
REMEMBERING SEPTEMBER 11
Hon. Rodney P. Frelinghuysen
of New Jersey
Mr. Speaker, today as a Nation we are reunited by a sense of common
grief. One year ago today, America witnessed the unspeakable when our
Nation was attacked and more than 3,000 innocent lives were cruelly
taken from us at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in
Pennsylvania. From my home State of New Jersey, we lost over 700 people,
and God bless their families. It was also a day when horror was met by
heroism and the worst of humanity was overshadowed by the best of
America. In reflections on this day, we remember the bravery of those
who responded on September 11, our police, firefighters, our first aid
squads, people who never gave up hope and rallied our Nation. They who
responded came from all over America and across the Hudson from New
Jersey.
We are grateful as well today for the service of our young men and
women in uniform who, fighting in our war against terrorism, are
resolved to bring justice to those who attacked us. They are fighting to
right this terrible wrong in honor of the memory of those who perished
and to protect our children and grandchildren, ensuring that they
inherit a Nation free from further terror.
ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF SEPTEMBER 11
Hon. Michael R. McNulty
of New York
Mr. Speaker, whenever I think of the enormity of what happened on
September 11, 2001, words fail; and so I try to recall the words of our
Commander in Chief on that fateful day. He basically made three
suggestions. He said we should pray for all of the innocent victims and
their families, and I try to remember to do that every day. He then said
we should be grateful. And I will be perfectly honest, gratitude was not
what was in my heart at that moment. But he went on to explain that we
should be grateful to all the police officers, firefighters, and
emergency personnel who, when others were running away from the
buildings in terror, running for their lives, continued to run toward
the buildings, into the buildings, up the stairs, many to their deaths.
That was their job. And they did it well that day because they saved
thousands of lives.
Finally, he suggested that we unite as a Nation in our resolve to
track down the terrorist cowards who committed those acts, bring them to
justice, and take away their capabilities to ever do anything like that
again either in the United States or anywhere else in the world.
On this solemn anniversary may we continue to remember those three
suggestions by our Commander in Chief.
TO THE CHILDREN ACROSS AMERICA REGARDING SEPTEMBER 11
Hon. Nick Lampson
of Texas
Mr. Speaker, usually when I stand here to address these 1-minutes, it
is on the subject of missing children. Today I want to talk about kids
who are missing mothers and fathers and sisters and brothers and friends
and family because on September 11 of last year more than 2,000 children
lost a parent. This may not be the kind of loss that I usually address,
but it is a profound loss, nonetheless. I want to send a message to
those kids today that this House is thinking about them and they are in
our hearts and in our prayers.
The children of this country also lost a sense of innocence and
security. I want to encourage parents across the Nation to talk to their
children about the tragic events of September 11 of last year to
reassure them that we all want the best for them and will continue to
work to keep their, our, country safe from harm.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Congressional Caucus on Missing and
Exploited Children, I send our thoughts and prayers out to the children
who lost somebody at the Pentagon, the World Trade Center, or in
Shanksville, PA, and to the kids all across America who are learning to
deal with a changed and unsettled world.
God bless you and God bless America.
ON REMEMBERING THE EVENTS OF SEPTEMBER 11
Hon. Anibal Acevedo-Vila
of Puerto Rico
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of all Puerto Ricans, I want to express
heartfelt sympathy for the families of the victims from the terrorist
attacks against this great Nation 1 year ago. The impacts of these
horrific events were immediately felt throughout Puerto Rico. Hundreds
of Puerto Ricans were among the dead and Puerto Rican emergency crews
were among the first to arrive to assist crews in New York and at the
Pentagon. But had there been no direct tragic link to Puerto Rico
through casualties or through the emergency workers, Puerto Ricans would
nonetheless continue to walk in lockstep in the war against terror. Make
no mistake about it, Puerto Ricans today, as throughout the last 100
years, serve dutifully in all the branches of our armed services. Our
common citizenship and common devotion toward democratic principles
underscore our commitment to common defense. I stand before my
colleagues today to let you all know that Puerto Rico will always be
there in this effort. The cowardly acts of September 11 have caused
great pain. Our suffering shall never be forgotten. But this Nation is
today stronger and more committed to our principles of freedom and
justice than ever before. United we stand, divided we fall. We stand
together and will never, ever forget.
EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF CONGRESS ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF TERRORIST ATTACKS
LAUNCHED AGAINST THE UNITED STATES ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
Hon. Richard K. Armey
of Texas
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent for the immediate consideration
of the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 464) expressing the sense of
the Congress on the anniversary of the terrorist attacks launched
against the United States on September 11, 2001.
The Clerk read the title of the concurrent resolution.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Simpson). Is there objection to the
request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
The Clerk read the concurrent resolution, as follows:
H. Con. Res. 464
Whereas on September 11, 2001, while Americans were attending to their
daily routines, terrorists hijacked and destroyed four civilian
aircraft, crashing two of them into the towers of the World Trade Center
in New York City, and a third into the Pentagon outside Washington,
D.C.;
Whereas the valor of the passengers and crew on the fourth aircraft
prevented it from also being used as a weapon against America;
Whereas thousands of innocent Americans were killed and injured as a
result of these attacks, including the passengers and crew of the four
aircraft, workers in the World Trade Center and in the Pentagon, rescue
workers, and bystanders, making these attacks the deadliest terrorist
attacks ever launched against the United States;
Whereas when the gravest moments came, many regular Americans, relying
on courage, instinct, and grace, rushed toward the flaming buildings in
order to rescue or toward terrorist-controlled cockpits in order to
resist;
Whereas by targeting symbols of American strength and success, these
attacks clearly were intended to assail the principles, values, and
freedoms of the United States and the American people, intimidate the
Nation, and weaken the national resolve;
Whereas while the States of New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania bore
the brunt of the terrorist attacks, every State and Territory and all
Americans were affected and mourned these tragic losses;
Whereas Americans reached out to help strangers who had lost loved
ones, colleagues, and their businesses;
Whereas local, State, and Federal leaders set aside differences and
worked together to provide for those who were attacked and to protect
those who remained;
Whereas Americans continue to repair damage to buildings and the
economy, while relishing the freedoms they enjoy as Americans;
Whereas on September 14, 2001, in Public Law 107-40, Congress
authorized the use of ``all necessary and appropriate force'' against
those responsible for the terrorist attacks;
Whereas the United States Armed Forces subsequently moved swiftly
against Al Qaeda and the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, whom the
President and Congress had identified as enemies of America;
Whereas, in so doing, brave servicemen and women left family and
friends in order to defend the Nation;
Whereas a year later, many servicemen and women remain abroad,
shielding the Nation from further terrorist attacks;
Whereas, while the passage of a year has not softened the memory of
the American people, resolved their grief, or restored lost loved ones,
it has shown that Americans will not bow to terrorists;
Whereas the Congress has passed, and the President has signed,
numerous laws providing additional resources for the overseas effort
against terrorism, as well as additional tools for Federal, State, and
local law enforcement and judicial systems to protect Americans at home;
and
Whereas the Government reexamined the need for domestic security and
the Congress is currently considering legislation to create a Department
of Homeland Security with the specific mission of preventing further
attacks: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That
Congress--
(1) recognizes September 11 as both a day to remember those taken from
their families, loved ones, and fellow citizens and a day for Americans
to recommit to the Nation, to their freedoms, and to each other;
(2) extends its deepest sympathies to the countless innocent victims
of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, their families, friends,
and loved ones;
(3) honors the heroic actions of first responders, law enforcement
personnel, State and local officials, volunteers, and others who aided
the innocent victims and, in so doing, bravely risked their own lives
and long-term health;
(4) stands in great debt with the American people to the members of
the Armed Forces serving both at home and abroad;
(5) praises the people of the United States for their patriotism,
compassion, prayers, and generosity in donating time and money to
support the innocent victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist
attacks, their families, friends, and loved ones;
(6) expresses thanks and gratitude to the foreign leaders and citizens
of all nations who have assisted and continue to stand in solidarity
with the United States against terrorism in the aftermath of the
September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks;
(7) discourages, in the strongest possible terms, any effort to
confuse the war on terrorism with a war on any people or any faith;
(8) commends the President and the brave servicemen and women of the
United States Armed Forces in the successful effort to oust the Taliban
from power;
(9) remains resolved to pursue all those responsible for the terrorist
attacks of September 11, 2001, and their sponsors until they are
discovered and punished; and
(10) reaffirms that Congress will honor the memory of those who lost
their lives as a result of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and
will defend bravely the citizens of the United States in the face of all
future challenges.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey) is
recognized for 1 hour.
Mr. ARMEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield the customary 30 minutes to the
gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Gephardt), the Democrat leader and
cosponsor of the resolution, pending which I yield myself such time as I
may consume.
Hon. Richard A. Gephardt
of missouri
Mr. Speaker, a year ago today the East Coast of this great land woke
up to the first rays of morning sunshine. We woke up as a Nation, full
of optimism, full of gratification, aware of our freedoms, but probably
taking them for granted. We were concerned about the people we love,
with the confidence they would all be there. We were excited about the
business of the day with hopes of good outcomes, and dearly involved
with our children with an understanding of their safety. We did not
think about heinous deeds when we woke that morning. Our minds were busy
with our plans and hopes, dreams and schemes; and we went about our
day's work.
Then, all of a sudden, out of the dark depths of the evil corners of
the world, hatred, meanness, despair, jealousy, greed, whatever, rose to
afflict this Nation.
We were shocked at what we saw. First, most of us thought it was an
accident and how tragic it was. But soon, we realized it was a vicious,
premeditated attack on us as a Nation and on innocent civilians in this
country.
Those streaming rays of sunshine that came through those big buildings
of New York City that stood as a monument to this thing we call the
practical American genius, were shattered. That peaceful field in
Pennsylvania, awake with morning dew, was smashed. Our Pentagon that
stands for strength and freedom was assailed in a way that it has never
been assailed. And, indeed, this very building on which we stand today
was saved that morning by the first response to this vicious attack.
We took the hurt and the losses, and they came early; but it did not
take us long to collect our wits in this great country. Immediately upon
understanding on flight 93 how vicious this was and how evil the intent,
our American heroes fought back and this Nation was inspired by Todd
Beamer who started the response with that phrase, ``Let's roll.''
Our early responders in New York City, after the tragic loss of life
following American flight 11, American flight 77, and in Northern
Virginia after the horrible nightmare of United flight 175, our early
responders came from our communities: firemen, policemen, and emergency
workers of all types. They rushed to the danger and saved lives.
We struggled through that day with doubt, uncertainty and fear. But as
the day wore on, we became more a Nation of resolve and less a Nation of
fear. We began to build our way back to confidence and optimism on that
very same day. America had the unwelcome need to see its own heroes
fight for survival and rescue on our own land, and our heroes rose to
the occasion in a way that has inspired each and every one of us.
In New York City and Pennsylvania and here in Northern Virginia, they
did so no more nor any less than they would have in Kansas City, San
Francisco, or Houston because they displayed the character of a free
people who cherish their freedom and love their neighbors.
Now we have been asked to go on with the task of ridding the world of
the evil that struck that blow. We again call upon our heroes, now not
so often, not so many civilians, but honorable men and women in uniform
who have stood before the history of this great Nation's marvelous
tradition of defending freedom, peace and respect and have said, ``I
will volunteer to serve this Nation in its armed services.''
These new young heroes, following generations of heroes past, are now
being asked daily all across this globe to incur risks and hardship to
find the evil ones and remove them.
I believe the perpetrators of evil that launched this horrible attack
have seen in ways they have never dared to imagine the character and
strength of this great Nation. They now know the resolve of this great
Nation. They all understand the courage of our heroes.
Let me say again what I said at the time. This Nation has proven it
will send its heroes. Our heroes have proven they will go when asked,
they will volunteer, they will do their duty. But we do not send our
heroes from this great Nation out of ambition for territorial expansion
or out of a sense of revenge, but out of a requirement for a just world,
a world in which people who will perpetrate evil against others will be
found, and they will be prosecuted.
Let me just say to those of you who are still out there plotting and
scheming, do not underestimate our American heroes; they are young, they
are bright, they are strong, they have courage, and they will in fact
bring you down.
Now we have come, Mr. Speaker, to this day a year later. The sun rose
in the east today, and this great East Coast of this great land was the
first to experience this morning. We woke a little wiser, a little more
aware, a little sadder, but we awoke with optimism, love, resolve and
courage, and we will be that way for so long as this great Nation shall
endure.
Mr. Speaker, I am honored to cosponsor this resolution with the
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey) in the spirit of bipartisan unity on
this difficult day for our wonderful and great Nation.
We gather together today to remember the victims, honor our rescue
workers, and cherish the values embraced by human beings across the
globe. On this first anniversary of September 11, we recall the
strength, the courage and the character of innocent people who lost
their lives in this horrendous attack.
To the families of September 11 victims, we say that we are with them
as one. We honor the bravery they have demonstrated in the face of
unspeakable suffering, and we honor the spirit of the American people,
humanity at its best.
Today, we recall that amid the chaos of September 11 our rescue
workers gave the last full measure of devotion so others could live
another day. Hundreds of people rushed into burning buildings to save
others who they had never before even met. On one of our darkest days,
they sent forth a defiant ray of hope, and words alone could never do
justice to their sacrifice.
Today, we also recognize this fundamental American truth: From the
horror of September 11 has come incredible, unimaginable strength. Our
Nation is still grieving, but make no mistake, we stand united.
As I said Friday in New York at our joint session, in this great and
faithful struggle, there are no Republicans, there are no Democrats;
there are only Americans, and we will remain resolved with our President
to defend all those who threaten the liberty, freedom and democracy that
define our Nation.
Today, as we pray for the victims' families, we also offer profound
gratitude to the people who may well have saved our lives by fighting
back on flight 93. This resolution is crafted in their spirit, with them
as our inspiration and as our guide.
This resolution honors people like the man who went to Ground Zero
after the attacks and started digging through the rubble, searching for
survivors, because, he said, we are ``digging for freedom.''
It honors the woman whose legs were crushed by debris at the World
Trade Center, who has been in the hospital every day for the past year.
It honors the firefighters in New York who, ascending the stairs,
calmly told civilians, ``Just keep going down, clear run. Keep going
down, clear run.''
It honors the doctors at the Pentagon who, rolling in water to ward
off the flames, saved countless servicemen and women because of their
raw courage.
It honors the ironworkers, the construction workers, the engineers and
others who worked around the clock for months to clear the debris at
Ground Zero.
It honors all the workers at the Pentagon who worked day and night to
meet the schedule of having the Pentagon back in perfect condition
before the 1-year anniversary of September 11.
It honors our law enforcement personnel who are protecting our
citizens on a daily basis here at home.
It honors the members of our Armed Forces who have been fighting and
are today fighting to defend our freedom and secure our Nation.
And it honors people like those we had lunch with on Friday in New
York who lost their spouses on September 11.
In the face of the unthinkable, their courage, their simple courage to
move to the future while they grieved about the past, was deeply moving
and inspiring. They demonstrated a commitment to the values that all of
us hold dear: Freedom, family, faith and friends.
Let all these deeds in the past year, and more, stand as a lasting
monument to the spirit of our great Nation.
Today, we know that our most solemn obligation is to ensure that those
who died on September 11 did not die in vain. In the days and weeks
ahead, let us continue to work together with humility to protect our
people, guard our freedoms, and report to the world that America will
never be defeated.
Let us move forward as one Nation, one people, for the sake of every
single person who believes in freedom and believes in civilization and
believes in humanity.
Let me end with the words of an old hymn that I love so much. When we
face the unexplainable, when we face evil, many of us turn to God. And,
as we did 1 year ago, we ask again today for God's help.
As the hymn says, ``And He will raise you up on eagles' wings, bear
you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you
in the palm of His hand.''
May God shed His grace on this great and wonderful country and all of
our people.
Hon. Henry J. Hyde
of Illinois
Mr. Speaker, it has been a year since the world watched the impossible
happen, and yet it is difficult to believe that such a year has passed
so quickly. The sense and feel of time have been altered, seemingly
suspended even as the calendar's relentless progress has remained
unaffected.
On this first anniversary, we would only deceive ourselves if we were
to believe that those events are now safely confined to the past. We
will continue to live with them all our lives.
Modern communications have brought us many new and wonderful things,
but they have also made possible the communal experience of tragedy. In
this new age, distance will no longer spare us, nor can an absence of
ties insulate us from sorrow.
All who witnessed the events of September 11 still bear the scars of
seeing inconceivable images and impossible events unfold in real time.
But our own experiences, however painful, cannot compare with that of
the innocents who bore the horror directly, nor with that of their
families and friends who were suddenly and violently severed from their
former lives and from the touch of those deeply loved.
We Americans are a practical people. Instead of resigning ourselves to
the difficulties of life, we instinctively seek to identify problems in
order to focus our efforts and move toward solutions. In the past year
we have done this.
We have come to know our enemies and direct our determination and
resources to uncovering their hiding places and plans. We are now
engaged in designing and implementing measures to resist their ability
to harm us. The challenge is an entirely new one, but one which gains in
clarity each day. I hope all of us are now aware that in addition to our
successes, we must prepare ourselves for the likelihood of failures in a
struggle that may have no end.
By infusing purpose, action can thus fill many voids, but the need
remains to understand what happened and to comprehend the meaning of the
events of that day. Here words give way to silence, for deep reflection
is the predicate to understanding. Our modern, rational world once
promised in time to reveal all secrets to us, but can we still cling to
that belief now that we have been confronted with things we thought long
past, vanquished and erased from the world by reason and light?
The modern world has seen many efforts to eliminate God from our
lives, but we have not been able to eliminate evil. The last century was
unparalleled in human history in its celebration of the savagery that
human beings can wreak upon one another. We had hoped we might escape
that fate in this century, but now we know that we will not.
We have been forcibly awakened from our dreams of an earthly heaven by
the bitter knowledge that evil still roams freely in the world. We
cannot allow ourselves to be paralyzed with despair or fear, and neither
can we permit our natural optimism to shield us from the realities of
the world. If there is any useful thing to be drawn from this terrible
experience, it is that we have been given an unmistakable warning that
in this new century, unknown and fearsome challenges await us,
challenges that will impose the severest test of our national character.
Knowing this, we have a duty to prepare ourselves to defend not only
our lives and those of our children, not only our beloved country, not
only our freedoms, but civilization itself. We are Rome, beset by new
barbarians who are savagely motivated by their immense hatred of us, of
our happiness and our success, of the promise America represents for the
world; for our enemies have no aim except destruction, nothing to offer
but a forced march back to a bleak and dismal past. Theirs is a world
without light; their all-encompassing hatred a repudiation of any saving
grace.
Their victory would impose a new Dark Age, but this time perhaps an
endless one. They are enemies of the future itself.
As we resolve ourselves to our task, as we grieve for all of those
linked to us by tragedy, we may also see ourselves more truly and
thereby understand that our great strengths are interwoven with many
fragile things, and that being human, we have our faults and flaws to
contend with as well. The threats we face have given us a greater sense
of how rare and wonderful is the world we share and of our
responsibility to protect it from the storms outside.
It is for these reasons that we remember those 3,000 fellow citizens
who, asking nothing other than to live their lives in peace, were
brutally murdered by men without conscience or mercy. We know it is
right to remember our dead and commend them to the mercy of God, because
should we forget them, we would only invite new acts of terror. We
remember because, to quote Lincoln's haunting phrase, ``the mystic
chords of memory'' bind us to the victims and the heroes of September
11.
And we shall not break faith with their memory.
May those who died in the attacks of September 11 rest in the mercy of
God. May those of us who remain be steadfast, courageous, and live lives
worthy of their great sacrifice.
Mr. Speaker, H. Con. Res. 464 expresses our gratitude to our friends
and underscores the Nation's resolve to meet the enemy and defeat them.
I believe passage of this resolution will commemorate those heroic
actions of last September 11 and stand as an important symbolic gesture
which all Members should support.
Hon. Tom Lantos
of california
Mr. Speaker, on this first anniversary of September 11, 2001, we mourn
the victims, we honor the heroes, we contemplate the lessons, and we
celebrate the unity of our Nation so proudly displayed since that
fateful day. One year ago, we suffered a grievous wound. One year later,
that wound has begun to heal and the scar it has left has toughened our
skin, but it has not and will not harden our hearts or dampen our
spirits. God bless this great Nation.
Hon. Porter J. Goss
of florida
Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished chairman of the committee for
yielding me this time. I am obviously here to join my colleagues in
honoring the memory of those who died in the terrorist attacks of a year
ago this day and to underscore with gratitude the amazing valor
displayed by them.
I am sure every American remembers where they were and what they were
doing when these ignominious attacks occurred. For me, I recall finding
Speaker Hastert in his office, urgently gazing out the window down the
Mall, looking at the smoke coming from the Pentagon. I urged immediate
evacuation, and the Speaker said, ``Stop. First, we must open the House
and have a prayer.'' So part of my memory includes our short gathering
in this Chamber and the earnest and moving prayer by the guest chaplain
of that day, Reverend Gerald Creedon.
I would like to begin my remarks this day recalling that prayer. He
said, ``God of peace and life, send Your spirit to heal our country;
bring consolation to all injured in today's tragedy in New York and
Washington. Protect us and help our leaders to lead us out of this
moment of crisis to a new day of peace. Amen.''
What Reverend Creedon did not know, and what none of us knew here, was
that more casualties were to come in a field in Pennsylvania shortly
after his prayer and our very hasty adjournment that day. Actually, this
was not Father Creedon's original prayer; he had prepared one on the
topic of immigration. But realizing the gravity of the situation, he
spontaneously gave us heartfelt, wonderful words which were suitable to
the moment and which are posted on the wall of my office to this day as
a daily reminder.
To the more than 3,000 people who lost their lives that day at the
World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and United flight 93, we owe
continuing remembrance, deep thanks, and responsive action. A year ago
today, terrorists attacked Americans and citizens of scores of other
countries who were on our U.S. soil. We, along with a broad coalition of
nations, have taken up the challenge of combating the scourge of global
terrorism. It is serious business. President Bush has left no doubt
about his commitment to have our Nation lead the way.
Last year the fight came to the doorstep of each and every American
citizen; and within the very first minutes of September 11, 2001, our
Nation responded as one. I would like to dedicate my short time today to
celebrating the men and women, ordinary Americans, who have fought back;
the quiet heroes.
Let me begin with Ceecee Lyles, a flight attendant of flight 93, who
was a resident of my district of Southwest Florida. A former police
patrol officer detective, she had spent 6 years risking her life to
protect others in that service. In December 2000, mindful of her young
children and looking for a less dangerous career, she enrolled as a
flight attendant school candidate; and 6 weeks later she began flying
for United Airlines out of Newark.
At 9:58 on September 11, only 5 minutes after the House recessed for
the day under the dire circumstances then apparent, Ceecee called her
husband, Lorne, in Fort Myers, who is a police officer there, from her
plane to tell him that her flight had been hijacked. Her words: ``I
called to tell you I love you. Tell the kids I love them.'' Her last
words that we know of were, ``I think they are going to do it. They are
forcing their way into the cockpit.''
And then the phone went dead.
In this Chamber, we owe a particular debt of gratitude to CeeCee Lyles
and her companions on flight 93, and we all know it. That flight may
very well have been heading to Washington when it crashed into
Shanksville, PA. Without prompting or training, the passengers and crew
fought back, and in doing so, saved many additional lives; possibly, our
lives right here in the Capitol, for as we now know, many believe, and
there is some evidence, that the Capitol was the intended target of
flight 93.
FBI Director Mueller, speaking at the crash site in Pennsylvania,
said, ``We believe that those passengers on that jet were absolute
heroes.'' Wallace Miller, the coroner for the case, called the
passengers citizen soldiers. He went on to ask: ``When can you think of,
other than the Revolution or our Civil War or at Pearl Harbor, where
American citizens died defending their home ground?''
But let us reflect a moment on our history. While many would compare
9/11 to the devastation of Pearl Harbor, there is a significant
difference. Pearl Harbor was, after all, a military-against-military
matter; 9/11 was a vicious attack on civilians and on freedom.
It is obvious that all of us have had to deal with new restrictions on
the way we live our lives; but we have also developed a sense of pride,
patience, and individual responsibility as we go about our lives to
bring us closer as Americans.
The terrorists thought they would destroy our spirit; but instead,
they renewed it. Destroying the will of the enemy to fight is the common
measure of victory in war. Bin Laden and his depraved extremists fueled
our resolve to wipe his brand of evil from a civilized world.
In addition to people all over America who have stepped up to the
plate, our government has also become more alert, more focused, and more
vigilant. We all must recognize the dedication and sacrifice of the
thousands of individuals in government service who are out there on the
front lines. They are protecting you and me, and they are making us
proud. They know we are counting on them at a time when it matters.
Every new day as we wake up safe and sound in our homes here, I hope
we remember to say just a little thank you to those out there for the
work they are doing. Whether fighting Al Qaeda in Afghanistan and
Pakistan, working the streets in Africa, Latin America, Europe, or Asia,
perhaps working in a cubicle in the Washington, DC, area, or as part of
the joint terrorism task force in a U.S. city, these are the
intelligence officers, the military and civilian personnel who in all
likelihood will not receive public recognition for the work they do; yet
they do work long hours, often in places far from friends and family,
and sometimes at very great personal risk. I regrettably acknowledge
that sometimes they do not come home.
Johnny Michael Spann was a CIA officer, a husband, and a father of
three. He went into Afghanistan in an early phase of the war to collect
information crucial to defeating the Taliban and to protecting Americans
at home. He was killed last November during a prisoner uprising in
Mazar-e-Sharif, which was particularly brutal, as we now know.
Finally, I would like to recognize that since last September every
American has been engaged in combating terrorism. We have been more
vigilant, aware and alert, reporting leads to the police and FBI in
record numbers. We have volunteered time and resources to our
communities. We have been more patient as we have tried new security
procedures at airports and public buildings, even though some of them
have clearly turned out to be unworkable. We have maintained our basic
freedoms and our democracy in the face of further terrorist threat. We
still fly, we go to the mall, we cheer on our sports teams, we drive
over bridges, we speak our minds, and we assemble where we choose.
So on this September 11, let us rededicate ourselves to honoring the
memory of those who died by continuing to stand up to terror and to
fear. Then let us also look to the future and the young people who are
preparing to join the fray. Our youth, who some thought might be
becoming a bit apathetic, or were perhaps now taking this great country
for granted, are now applying in record numbers to service academies, to
police and fire departments, the military, the FBI, the CIA, and other
government service. They are our future, and they are ready.
September 11 will come again next year and every year thereafter. It
is now part of who we are. Woe to those who would ever test us again.
Hon. Eleanor Holmes Norton
of District of Columbia
September 11 will always be a day to remember; but for us, it must
also be a day to consider how to go on. If one lives or works here, as
Members do, we remember that no sooner had September 11 come than we had
October and the anthrax tragedies that occurred, beginning in the
Brentwood post office, and spread even to this very Congress.
Yet, Mr. Speaker, though some may consider the capitol city a target
city, I can come to the floor this afternoon and say I have never felt
myself to be a target. That is probably because I am an American, and it
may be in part because I was a small child in this city during World War
II. Therefore, I am blessed and perhaps burdened by the notion of
American invincibility. I do not believe that simply because of our
military might. Somehow I believe that my country cannot and will not be
defeated ever from within or without. It is simply part of the way I was
raised, and it is part of the way we must raise our children.
I know how one's spirit can be broken when one goes to the funerals of
three small children and their teacher who went down in the plane at the
Pentagon. It can try one's spirit. But the fact is, I regard those
children as representatives of all who lost their lives in September and
October of last year; and somehow or other, remembering September 11 and
the October anthrax tragedies through the lives of these 11-year-old
children and their teachers, random targets, has instructed me how to go
on.
I believe we will defeat terrorism. I tell you, it is part of my core
belief. What I think we have to learn to do is to maintain an open
society in the process. No society has ever faced what we have today. No
society has ever had to face keeping itself wide open while
understanding that terror lies within.
I am a native Washingtonian, a fourth-generation Washingtonian. We
live here and feel ourselves the stewards of the Nation's Capital. As
such, we cannot stand by and see the Nation's Capital ever be closed,
because if it is closed or seems to close down, the rest of America will
believe it must follow behind.
If this is to be an open and free society, it must begin with an open
and free Washington, DC. I am proud of the Congress for keeping our
Chambers open, for doing all we can to keep this city open, and for
remembering that when we are open, the rest of the country will feel
itself open. Finally we will, I believe, have the rest of the world
believe they, too, must open their societies to us and to the rest of
the world.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for bringing this resolution to the
floor.
Hon. Benjamin A. Gilman
of New York
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. 464,
commemorating the tragic events of 9/11. I commend our distinguished
majority leader, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey); our distinguished
Committee on International Relations chairman, the gentleman from
Illinois (Mr. Hyde); and our ranking minority member, the gentleman from
California (Mr. Lantos) for bringing this measure to the floor at this
time.
On that day, 1 year ago, our Nation was deliberately and barbarically
attacked by terrorists at New York's World Trade Center, at the
Pentagon, and on flight 93 over Pennsylvania. It is our solemn duty
today to reflect on those terrorist events and to memorialize those who
perished needlessly at the hands of those criminals.
My 20th Congressional District in New York lost more than 90 innocent
lives on that terrible day. We join in extending our condolences to all
of the 9/11 victims, and to their families and to their loved ones, and
at the same time, in reminding them of our Nation's unrelenting
determination to bring to justice all those who carried out these evil
acts.
As our Nation stands together today honoring the innocent men and
women who were taken from us on 9/11, we also pay tribute to our
firefighters, to the police officers, to the rescue workers, and to all
the citizens who bravely mounted the largest rescue operation in history
under the most unthinkable conditions. Their countless heroic acts on 9/
11 mark it both as a day of tragedy as well as triumph.
Let us also pause today to salute the men and women of our Armed
Forces who are out there defending freedom and democracy on the front
lines of our war on terrorism. Let us pray, too, for their safe return
and their eventual triumph.
As we reflect today upon our extensive losses on the anniversary of
tragedy and horror, let us also remember the valor, the patriotism, and
the unity of our Nation in its darkest hour. That date, 9/11, was not
only a turning point in the history of our great Nation, but also the
world. As we seek God's blessing for our Nation and for the victims and
heroes of September 11, let us all pledge to work together to make our
world a safer place in which to live.
Hon. Steny H. Hoyer
of Maryland
I am pleased to join the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) and
also my very close friend, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde), in
recognizing and remembering. As well, I am pleased to follow the remarks
of my friend, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman). All three of
these gentlemen, Mr. Speaker, have been in the forefront of focusing on
the foreign policy of the United States. All three have focused on the
extension of liberty and justice and freedom throughout this world. All
three have focused on human rights and the recognition of the rights of
individuals. How appropriate it is that these three leaders lead us in
this remembrance.
Mr. Speaker, none of us will forget where we were when we learned the
news. None of us will forget those 84 minutes from 8:46 a.m. on
September 11, 2001, when the North Tower was struck, to 84 minutes later
when the crash of the jet from Pennsylvania precluded the success of the
terrorists in striking this Capitol.
None of us, Mr. Speaker, will ever forget. In an instant on that
Tuesday morning, now known simply as 9/11, this generation of Americans
suffered its Pearl Harbor. In an instant, or more accurately, I suppose,
in 84 minutes, more than 3,000 innocent human beings, many of uncommon
courage, were murdered by criminals of unbounded evil.
Words, Mr. Speaker, cannot convey the depth of pain inflicted on this
Nation and its people 1 year ago. The pain endures and will remain.
Today we remember all those who were taken on that horrific day. Our
thoughts and our prayers are with those who survived and those who lost
loved ones, as well as with the brave men and women this very hour
defending freedom here at home and abroad.
In many ways, such unspeakable acts have clarified our purpose,
steeled our resolve, and confirmed who we are.
We are a peaceful, tolerant and compassionate people. The evidence of
that, Mr. Speaker, lies throughout our great Nation.
Since September 11 private charities have raised more than $2.4
billion to assist survivors. Former President Clinton and former Senate
Majority Leader Bob Dole joined to raise $105 million to pay for college
for the children and spouses of those killed or disabled. More than
3,000 people download applications for Americorps every week; more than
76,000 have requested Peace Corps applications; and more than 48,000
have signed up for Citizen Corps programs. Yes, Mr. Speaker, this is a
generous, compassionate and giving Nation.
Closer to home, Donn Marshall of Marbury, MD, refused to let the
savagery of 9/11 define the life and loss of his beloved wife, Shelley.
Shelley was an employee of the Defense Intelligence Agency and she was
one of the 20 Fifth Congressional District residents and 53 Marylanders
who were taken from their family and friends by the mindless acts of
savagery on 9/11. Rather than give in, however, to unblinking but
justified anger, Donn has given his sorrow meaning.
In tribute to his wife, Shelley, he established the Shelley A.
Marshall Foundation, an irrevocable trust that funds children's story
hours at public libraries, creative writing contests at colleges, and
tea parties at nursing homes that bring senior citizens and high school
students together.
The aftermath of 9/11 has seen countless other acts, Mr. Speaker, of
generosity, community and courage, in your district, Mr. Speaker, in
mine, and in the districts of every Member of this House, which is to
say in every corner of this Nation. From the local police officers and
firefighters who raced toward danger at the Pentagon and Ground Zero in
New York City, to the Facchina Construction Company in my district and
those employees who completed their reconstruction work at the Pentagon
3\1/2\ months early, even after their La Plata headquarters was
devastated and destroyed by a tornado just a few months ago, to the
local artist in my district who raised $5,000 for the widows and
children of firefighters from the sale of 9/11 T-shirts that he
designed.
Mr. Speaker, the terrorists who sought to break our spirit only
fortified that spirit. Their barbarism reminded us of our inevitable
vulnerability but also reminded us that we are a part of something much
greater than ourselves. We are the land of the free because, Mr.
Speaker, we are the home of the brave.
More than 40 years ago President Kennedy stirred our Nation when he
said, ``The energy, the faith, the devotion that we bring to this
endeavor will light our country and all who serve it.'' And he correctly
concluded that, ``The glow from that fire can truly light the world.''
The fire of freedom, Mr. Speaker, forged the American character and it
burns deep within our souls. The ashes of tragedy have rekindled that
spirit; and 1 year later, the world must know freedom's light still
burns brightly and its eternal truth shall never, never be extinguished.
May God, Mr. Speaker, continue to bless and guide America as we continue
our commitment to a just Nation and the defense and extension of
freedom.
Hon. Zach Wamp
of Tennessee
Mr. Speaker, this is a day of remembrance, a day of remembering over
3,000 individual persons who died at the hands of people who were so
deranged that they also died in their killings of innocents in America.
A day of remembering 3,000 families that will never again be the same,
but the families through their sacrifice have definitely contributed to
a better America because of what they have given. A day of remembering
the sacrifice and courage that was demonstrated, manifesting itself as
love, immediately overtook hate, incredible love that sent warm feelings
throughout the world toward the United States of America. It is a day of
emotion.
I was at the Pentagon this morning, as were many of my colleagues and
our President and the Secretary of Defense. I was there last year right
after the Pentagon was struck. The stench of war, death and destruction
a year ago was replaced this morning by the smell of new construction, a
breeze that blew up the dust of a construction site now complete,
sparkling new windows, and a whole new day at the Pentagon. A day of
sadness for great loss. A day of joy for the phoenix project and that
new beginning. A day of humility.
I continue to be in awe of this job, this country, and the people of
America. A day of national pride as we stand together with our President
and our leadership. A day of deep and abiding love for our fellow man of
all denominations from all around the world. God created each of us. But
a day of righteous anger for what has happened, and a desire for justice
to be served, but for our country to never extract revenge.
Mr. Speaker, today is a day of unity in this House and across this
land. The Holy Scripture says that unity is a supernatural anointing of
God. The words say, One can chase 1,000, in the Old Testament. Two can
chase 10,000. What that means is whenever God's children get together
with a common purpose, spirit of unity, God anoints that unity and
supernatural things can happen. We have seen that in this country as we
have come together. We need to do it more often. We need to continue the
unity that this tragedy brought to this great Nation.
Mr. Speaker, today is a day of resolve. We live in a new and difficult
time. We stand today, my generation, on the shoulders of the greatest
generation. A generation that I grew up admiring and continue to admire.
The greatest generation rightly earned their place in our country's
history because of their dedication and their sacrifice. My generation
has been called the ``me generation.'' We are self-absorbed, self-
consuming, lazy, maybe not even capable of having what it takes. But I
believe that in the last year, thanks to our domestic warriors, our
first responders, our troops on the home front, our firefighters and law
enforcement personnel and EMTs, and the bravery and courage that they
have shown, this ``me generation'' may be becoming the ``we
generation.'' More selflessness, more sacrifice, more courage than I
have seen in my lifetime has been demonstrated in the last year.
I even see the joy in the eyes of the greatest generation as they look
in their later years at what has happened in the last year with some
amazement and incredible pride to say to this generation, you have what
it takes, too. And I am glad because the days ahead are uncertain, and
challenges are many. We may have many difficult times that we must go
through ahead; but, Mr. Speaker, we have what it takes because we
inherited a legacy of courage and honor and valor and we must answer
this call to courage because what is at stake is freedom.
It is fragile. It is a powerful force much like unity and love, but it
is fragile. We must not rest. We must not grow complacent over time. We
must be vigilant. We must be willing to fight and to die to preserve
freedom.
Hon. James R. Langevin
of Rhode Island
Mr. Speaker, 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