One Year Later
They say time heals all wounds. But it would take an eternity for the grief to subside for the families of the 3,000 people mass murdered last year on September 11. The mental images of commercial jetliners searing into national landmarks remain fresh in our minds. Such horrific acts seemed impossible a year ago. But of course all that has changed.
It's hard to understand such hate and extreme acts of terror against humanity. And while the federal government is working to beef up the military, protect our borders and improve its intelligence-gathering, it's virtually impossible to guarantee a risk-free environment in a free and open society.
One year after the attacks, I'm not so sure the American people really think we're in a war. But the fact is, we are. And we will be for some time to come. I pray we don't end up with the situation in the Middle East where there are random suicide bombings. But the risk exists. Terrorism has changed our way of life. And every one of us has a new responsibility to remain vigilant. The one-year anniversary of the September 11 attacks is an important reminder that the war against terror has not yet been won.
Considering the loss of human life, imminent terrorist threats to our security and ailing economy, it's not easy to look for the silver lining on the one-year anniversary of the September 11 attacks. But remember what the President said in the week after the attacks – the terrorists succeeded in tearing down bricks and mortar, but they failed to rock the foundation that keeps America strong. A year later, America's resilience can be seen from sea to shining sea.
September 11, 2001 ushered in a new era. Notions of invincibility were shattered. But the uncommon courage of the first responders called to duty on that day reflects the steadfast spirit of America. Our resolve to pull together and stand united against evil immediately resurrected the principles with which this country was founded some 226 years ago. Despite the attacks – attacks designed to pit fear against freedom – the United States of America is stronger than ever.
Like the rest of the country, lawmakers in Washington, D.C. dropped partisan pretense and worked quickly to assist survivors, back recovery efforts, ensure the safety of the flying public, and get the economy rolling again. Congress threw its support behind the President to root out the terrorist network responsible for the attacks, realizing the war in Afghanistan is probably only one of the battles to be fought and won.
Thanks to our courageous service men and women, the al-Qaeda network has been largely dismantled from its base in Afghanistan. But evil continues to lurk in other regions of the world. And with the security of the American people first and foremost in his mind, the President has worked to leave no stone unturned. That includes creating a new cabinet-level Department of Homeland Security and keeping Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein from unleashing weapons of mass destruction against the United States and the world.
The President needs to continue making the case to the American people, Congress and our allies abroad, that freedom and peace will remain at risk until rogue dictators and others who harbor terrorists and finance their evil schemes are no longer able to do so.
This month the U.S. Senate is debating the proposal to realign the federal government's infrastructure and operations charged with thwarting acts of terrorism. I'm working to make sure the new department helps to solve the shortcomings exposed by September 11, not create new ones.
Many recall the patriotism displayed by native Iowan Coleen Rowley, who blew the whistle on bureaucratic bungling at the FBI. I'll work to see the new department's employees are guaranteed strong whistleblower protections and to strengthen accountability within the intelligence community. I'll also be watching out to see hardworking taxpayers aren't taken for a ride with this new federal agency.
One year later, life goes on in America. It's not the same as it was a year ago. Life isn't as secure or risk-free as it once was. Air travelers deal with tightened security measures at the nation's airports. People are staying closer to home. Ordinary Americans and law enforcement officials don't hesitate to report suspicious activity. And, for many, it's enhanced common courtesies and boosted greater appreciation for the simpler things in life.
Iowans deserve a lot of credit for their outpouring of support in the last year. From a remarkable quilt-making project for the victims to generous charitable cash donations and those serving in the military, Iowans are proud, compassionate Americans. Many agree the tragedy a year ago has renewed a sense of civic duty, patriotism and appreciation for the U.S. military. There's a spirit of all-for-one and one-for-all as we wear, display and decorate with all things red, white and blue.
On this one-year anniversary, I join you in reflection and remembrance. While we go about our daily business, we'll consider the tragic loss in human life and the acts of heroism by brave defenders. In the weeks and years ahead, we can continue to work for the betterment of our communities. We can donate blood, pray for the victims and their families, support emergency workers, and give thanks for the precious freedoms we enjoy every day. We can't erase the sorrow and suffering brought by September 11, but with our actions each one of us can make America stronger.