[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 130 (Tuesday, October 2, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1767-E1768]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  TRIBUTE TO THE GREATER KANSAS CITY CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN RED CROSS

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                            HON. SAM GRAVES

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 2, 2001

  Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Greater Kansas 
City Chapter of the American Red Cross for its work and sacrifice in 
honor of all the people who both survived and who lost their lives in 
the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001, their families and their 
friends.
  These terrorist attacks mark a solemn moment in America's history. 
American men and

[[Page E1768]]

women, civilians and soldiers, firefighters and police, mothers and 
fathers, were slain for a cause so terrible, so heinous, and so 
despicable that we find it unimaginable and indescribable. United, 
Americans seek to find meaning and hope in a seemingly hopeless and 
meaningless act. In the days since these terrible terrorist attacks, 
America has been shoulder-to-shoulder in a struggle to meet the 
challenges of a world that is a little less safe, a little scarier, and 
far less predictable. The efforts of organizations like the Greater 
Kansas City Chapter of the American Red Cross signify the commitment 
and concern of Americans everywhere. Our nation's strength does not lie 
in her military might but rather in the collective compassion of its 
people.
  Since the September 11th terrorist attacks, the Greater Kansas City 
Chapter of the American Red Cross has assisted in local telethons, 
blood drives, and volunteer efforts to support the nationwide relief 
effort to provide for the grieving families and rescue workers. The 
patriotism and persistence of the Greater Kansas City Chapter of the 
American Red Cross is a lasting memorial to the thousands of victims 
who perished in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania.
  Through the days, weeks, and months ahead, all Americans must come 
together and do what they can to assist the nation's war effort. 
Whether it is giving blood, sending donations, praying for the 
thousands of grieving families, or simply saying thanks to the brave 
men and women who put their lives on the line each and every day so 
that we may be free, it is important that the American people are 
vigilant in their efforts to overcome this evil. Though our nation has 
witnessed unspeakable horror, America's virtues, determination, and 
faith continues to shine brightly on the world.
  I am confident that the United States will seek out those that harbor 
hatred, terror, and depravity in their hearts; and we will defeat them. 
This is a war that we must, can, and will win. May God bless the 
families and children grieving across this great nation and may God 
bless America.

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