A Message from Jim Himes on 9.11

Statement

Congressman Jim Himes sent the following message today regarding 9/11:

Each year on this date, like you, I think back on an event that does not rest easy in our historical memory. It is a tribute to our fundamental goodness and decency as Americans that we can not and will not ever understand the twists in the minds of those who would murder innocents. And so we still struggle to make sense of what happened 11 years ago, and work to commemorate and celebrate those who died in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania.

This year, our sadness and confusion is partly salved by knowing that the mastermind of 9/11 was found and eliminated. Rough justice, to be sure, but far better than he deserved. Bin Laden's death, and those of so many of his lieutenants, has sent a clear message to those who would do us harm that we will bear any burden and pay any price to see justice served.

9/11 is still very much alive for me, as it is for you. I remember walking the streets of lower Manhattan feeling the anger, the confusion and the fear. But we are Americans, and we don't do fear very well, or for very long. So what I remember most about that day was the instinct that followed close on the heels of the fear: the instinct to help. We all felt it: my country, my people, my brothers and sisters have been attacked, what can I do to help?

I remember the lines stretched around corners in the dark and dust of people donating blood. Office workers handing water and food to firefighters. Many young people decided that day to put on their country's uniform. Some have never returned.

For me, this is a day of recommitment. To remembering those lost, to thanking those whose perilous job it is to keep us safe and free, and to nurturing that spirit of community and caring that changed all of us eleven years ago.

God Bless,

Jim

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