September 11, 2004

SENATOR SUSAN COLLINS RELEASES STATEMENT ON 3rd ANNIVERSARY OF 9-11 TERRORIST ATTACKS

WASHINGTON, DC—On the eve of the third anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Senator Susan Collins has released the following statement:

"September 11th will forever be a day for Americans to reflect on one of the darkest moments in our nation's history. This day took the lives of 3000 innocent Americans and prompted a war against terrorism that will challenge us for generations.

"The challenges we face as a result of the attacks against our homeland are many. But the past three years have resulted in much progress in the effort to make America safer. We have captured hundreds of Al Qaeda operatives, denied terrorists their sanctuary in Afghanistan, enhanced security at airports, borders, ports, and public buildings, and trained thousands of first responders.

"As we reflect on that day of horror and heroism, we pause to remember those who perished, keep in our thoughts and prayers the families of the victims, and honor the firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical personnel who made such a difference on that terrible day. "It is my hope that on September 11, 2004, Americans will come together with the same sense of resolve and unity that brought us together as a nation on this day three years ago."

Earlier today, the U.S. Senate held a moment of silence to honor the victims of the September 11 attacks.

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