[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 130 (Tuesday, October 2, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1779]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING THE STUDENT BODY OF RIDGEVIEW ELEMENTARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. SAM GRAVES

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 2, 2001

  Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Student Body 
of Ridgeview Elementary for their 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 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 young people 
like the Student Body of Ridgeview Elementary 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, Student Body of Ridgeview 
Elementary has raised and contributed more than $1,000 to provide for 
the grieving families and rescue workers. The patriotism and 
persistence of the Student Body of Ridgeview Elementary 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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