"Five years ago we all watched with horror as terrorists struck the United States. Few of us will ever forget where we were, who we were with and what we did in the moments after learning of the attacks. On September 11, 2001, 2,973 men, women, and children were murdered by terrorists who had only one goal - to kill innocents without remorse.

“Today as we remember their lives, we pause in sorrow with those who lost loved ones. We also reflect and give thanks in deepest appreciation to the countless Americans who displayed acts of tremendous courage and valor on September 11th.

“The values of our nation - freedom of expression, assembly and religion and opportunity and liberty for all - will not be undermined by hate-filled extremists who threaten us. Our democracy is strong and our commitment to our nation is great. There is no challenge too large for us to face, and to conquer.

“It is our responsibility to recommit ourselves to hunting down and eliminating terrorists. And it is our duty to use our power and skills to continue to defend America and all of its citizens.”

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