Senator Collins’ Statement on 20th Anniversary of 9/11
Bangor, ME—U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued this statement on the 20th Anniversary of September 11th:
“Two decades have passed, but September 11, 2001, remains as vivid for me as if it were yesterday. Many of us have our own recollections of where we were and what we were doing as the horrifying events began to unfold.
“On the evening of that terrible day, members of Congress gathered on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. With tears in our eyes and sorrow in our hearts, together we sang, “God Bless America.” The emotions of shock, anger, and grief were joined by unity, patriotism, and resolve as we sang.
“We join all Americans in remembering each of the nearly 3,000 lives lost that day; lives of accomplishment, contribution, and promise.
“We also honor the heroes of that day. We still are moved by the selfless courage of men and women on Flight 93 who wrestled that plane to the ground, sacrificing their lives so that others might live. We are inspired by the firefighters and police officers at the World Trade Center who continued to climb upward in rescue even as the Twin Towers were coming down. We pay tribute to the first responders, the military personnel, and the civilians who rushed into the smoke and flames at the Pentagon to lead others to safety. We express our gratitude to those who have given so much to defend our nation against terrorism, the men and women of our armed forces.
“September 11th was more than a day of personal tragedy. It was an attack on the United States, on freedom, and on civilization. We must never forget what was lost, and what remains at stake. We must continue to do all that we can to prevent future attacks.
“In what seemed like a moment, September 11th was transformed from a day like any other day into one that will stand alone. The loss we relive this day reminds us of the value of all that we must protect. The heroism reminds us of the unconquerable spirit of the American people. As long as we keep the meaning of this day of remembrance in our hearts, we can meet the challenges that lie ahead.”
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