Sen. Carper Statement on the Anniversary of the September 11 Terrorist Attacks

WASHINGTON – In observance of the 11th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement:

 Today’s anniversary of 9/11 is a solemn occasion that gives us an opportunity to reflect on that tragic day and remember all those that we lost.  At the same time, it gives us an important occasion to think about the future, and what we as Americans can do to rekindle the spirit of unity that helped our nation heal after that horrible day. In the years since 9/11, that spirit of unity has at times waned; yet, we have also found ways to come together to address the permanent impact of those terrible events and honor the memory of our fallen citizens. Friends and families of the 9/11 victims have led that important effort, channeling their grief and using it as a force for good by inspiring all of us to keep the memory of the victims alive. They have also challenged our nation to adopt specific measures to improve the safety and security of our country.  

 Eleven years after 9/11, Osama bin Laden is dead and our nation’s safety and security efforts are much stronger, but we must remain vigilant. Our country still faces great challenges ranging from cyber security, to our national debt, to the need to create jobs and grow our economy. I firmly believe that we can’t adequately address these problems if we don’t put aside our differences and work together. On 9/11 we came together to unite as a people and a nation. Today, on this 11^th anniversary, I urge Delawareans and all Americans to renew their commitment to that spirit of unity.