WESTMORELAND – Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) issued the following statement as we reflect on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks on the United States of America:
“September 11, 2001, was a day that changed our nation. The calmness that blanketed America on the morning of September 11, 2001, quickly turned to chaos as we experienced the deadliest day in American history when al-Qaida attacked our country. While it’s been 25 years since the September 11 terrorist attacks on our nation, we must never forget that day. Not only did September 11 change our nation, it also affected our commonwealth, and the lives of countless families and communities.
“On that day, the world watched as two planes struck the World Trade Center in New York and another crashed into the Pentagon in Virginia. A fourth plane, intended for a target in Washington, D.C., was diverted when 40 brave passengers and crew members banded together putting America first by fighting back against the hijackers leading the charge with ‘Let’s Roll.’ These patriots lost their lives but helped save a nation that day by forcing United Flight 93 to crash into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, less than 45 miles from my home and the district I serve.
“There were many patriots that day including first responders, law enforcement officers and communities who stepped up to respond to this tragedy in ways that continue to inspire us today. Let us honor our local and national heroes who demonstrated true patriotism by taking a moment to not only remember the 3,000 lives lost but to also learn about them and share their stories.
“We are a resilient nation. Even in our toughest moments, we stand united, guided by the strength and spirit that defines the United States of America.”