[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 125 (Thursday, September 11, 2003)]
[House]
[Pages H8207-H8212]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             NATIONAL MEMORIAL TO VICTIMS OF TERRORISM ACT

  Mr. POMBO. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to the order of the House of 
September 10, 2003, I call up the bill (H.R. 911) to authorize the 
establishment of a memorial to victims who died as a result of 
terrorist acts against the United States or its people, at home or 
abroad, and ask for its immediate consideration.
  The Clerk read the title of the bill.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the order of the House of 
September 10, 2003, the bill is considered read for amendment.
  The text of H.R. 911 is as follows:

                                H.R. 911

       Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
     the United States of America in Congress assembled,

     SECTION 1. AUTHORIZATION OF MEMORIAL.

       (a) In General.--The Advisory Board established in section 
     2(a) is authorized to establish a memorial (referred to 
     hereafter in this Act as the ``Memorial'') in accordance with 
     this Act on Federal lands administered by the National Park 
     Service in the District of Columbia and its environs (as 
     defined in section 2(e) of the Commemorative Works Act (40 
     U.S.C. 1002(e)) to victims who died as a result of terrorist 
     acts against the United States or its people, at home or 
     abroad, except those individuals identified by the Attorney 
     General of the United States as participating or conspiring 
     in terrorist-related activities.
       (b) Detail of Employees.--The Secretary of the Interior 
     (referred to hereafter in this Act as the ``Secretary'') 
     shall detail to the Advisory Board such support staff as are 
     necessary to assist the members of the Advisory Board in 
     carrying out its responsibilities.
       (c) Relationship to the Commemorative Works Act.--The 
     Commemorative Works Act (40 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.) shall apply 
     to the Memorial, with the exception of section 3(c) of that 
     Act which shall not apply to the Memorial.

     SEC. 2. ADVISORY BOARD.

       (a) Establishment.--There is established an advisory board 
     to be known as the ``Victims of Terrorism Memorial Advisory 
     Board'' (referred to hereafter in this Act as the ``Advisory 
     Board'').
       (b) Members.--The Advisory Board shall consist of 13 
     members who shall be appointed, not later than 3 months after 
     the date of the enactment of this Act, by the President (in 
     consultation with the Secretary of the Interior and the 
     Secretary of Defense) from interested persons, including 
     representatives of organizations dedicated to assisting 
     victims of terrorism and their families.
       (c) Chairperson.--The Chairperson of the Advisory Board 
     shall be one of its Members elected by a majority of the 
     Members at the first meeting of the Advisory Board.
       (d) Terms; Vacancies.--Members of the Advisory Board shall 
     serve for the life of the Advisory Board. The President shall 
     make appointments to fill any vacancies that occur.
       (e) Duties.--The Advisory Board shall--
       (1) raise necessary funds to establish, design, construct, 
     and maintain the Memorial; and
       (2) begin consultation under section 7 of the Commemorative 
     Works Act not later than 1 year after the date of the 
     enactment of this Act.
       (f) Donations.--The Advisory Board may accept donations on 
     behalf of the United States for the establishment, design, 
     construction, and maintenance of the Memorial.
       (g) Termination.--The Advisory Board shall terminate not 
     later than 120 days after completion of the Memorial.
       (h) FACA.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. 
     App.) shall not apply to the Advisory Board.

     SEC. 3. DEPOSIT OF EXCESS FUNDS.

        If, upon payment of all expenses of the establishment of 
     the Memorial (including the maintenance and preservation 
     amount provided for in section 8(b) of the Commemorative 
     Works Act), or upon expiration of the authority for the 
     Memorial under section 10(b) of that Act, there remains a 
     balance in the funds received under section 3(f) for 
     maintenance of the Memorial, the Chairperson of the Advisory 
     Board shall transfer the amount of the balance to the 
     Secretary of the Treasury for deposit in the account provided 
     for in section 8(b)(1) of that Act.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The amendment designated in the previous 
order of the House is adopted.
  The text of the amendment in the nature of a substitute is as 
follows:

       Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the 
     following:

     SECTION 1. AUTHORIZATION OF MEMORIAL.

       (a) In General.--The Advisory Board established in section 
     2(a) is authorized to establish a memorial (referred to 
     hereafter in this Act as the ``Memorial'') in accordance with 
     this Act on Federal lands administered by the National Park 
     Service in the District of Columbia and its environs (as 
     defined in section 8902(a)(3) of title 40, United States 
     Code) to victims who died as a result of terrorist acts 
     against the United States or its people, at home or abroad, 
     except those individuals identified by the Attorney General 
     of the United States as participating or conspiring in 
     terrorist-related activities.
       (b) Detail of Employees.--The Secretary of the Interior 
     shall detail to the Advisory Board such support staff as are 
     necessary to assist the members of the Advisory Board in 
     carrying out its responsibilities.
       (c) Relationship to the Commemorative Works Act.--Chapter 
     89 of title 40, United States Code, shall apply to the 
     Memorial, with the exception of section 8903(c) of that title 
     which shall not apply to the Memorial.

     SEC. 2. ADVISORY BOARD.

       (a) Establishment.--There is established an advisory board 
     to be known as the ``Victims of Terrorism Memorial Advisory 
     Board'' (referred to hereafter in this Act as the ``Advisory 
     Board'').
       (b) Members.--The Advisory Board shall consist of 13 
     members who shall be appointed not later than 3 months after 
     the date of the enactment of this Act. Nine members shall be 
     appointed by the President (in consultation with the 
     Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Defense), 2 
     members by the Speaker of the House of Representatives (in 
     consultation with the Minority Leader) and 2 members by the 
     Majority Leader of the Senate (in consultation with the 
     Minority Leader) from interested persons, including 
     representatives of organizations dedicated to assisting 
     victims of terrorism and their families.
       (c) Chairperson.--The Chairperson of the Advisory Board 
     shall be one of its members elected by a majority of the 
     members at the first meeting of the Advisory Board.
       (d) Terms; Vacancies.--Members of the Advisory Board shall 
     serve for the life of the Advisory Board. The President shall 
     make appointments to fill any vacancies that occur.
       (e) Duties.--The Advisory Board shall--
       (1) raise necessary funds to establish, design, construct, 
     and maintain the Memorial; and
       (2) begin consultation under section 8907 of title 40, 
     United States Code, not later than 1 year after the date of 
     the enactment of this Act.
       (f) Donations.--The Advisory Board may accept donations on 
     behalf of the United States for the establishment, design, 
     construction, and maintenance of the Memorial.
       (g) Termination.--The Advisory Board shall terminate not 
     later than 120 days after completion of the Memorial.
       (h) FACA.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. 
     App.) shall not apply to the Advisory Board.

     SEC. 3. DEPOSIT OF EXCESS FUNDS.

        If, upon payment of all expenses of the establishment of 
     the Memorial (including the maintenance and preservation 
     amount provided for in section 8906(b) of title 40, United 
     States Code), or upon expiration of the 7-year period 
     beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, there 
     remains a balance in the funds received under section 8903(f) 
     of title 40, United States Code, for maintenance of the 
     Memorial, the Chairperson of the Advisory Board shall 
     transfer the amount of the balance to the Secretary of the 
     Treasury for deposit in the account provided for in section 
     8906(b) of that title.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo) 
and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Turner) each will control 30 minutes.
  The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo).
  Mr. POMBO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  Mr. Speaker, 2 years ago today, America experienced an unimaginable 
act of terrorism that resulted in over 3,000 innocent people being 
taken from their families, including over 300 brave firefighters and 60 
police officers from New York City, and over 40 military personnel at 
the Pentagon. The attacks of 9/11 changed America forever. While it 
renewed our sense of patriotism, it also challenged Americans to accept 
new limitations in their lives.
  While our Nation has certainly experienced tragedies in the past, the 
events of 9/11 affected the soul of this Nation and have transformed 
how millions of Americans live their lives. America has entered a new 
era following the events of September 11, 2001, an age where peace and 
personal security at home is no longer taken for granted. Americans, 
unfortunately, have been victims of terrorism in the past.

[[Page H8208]]

  These are just a few of a long list of examples:
  The assassination of Cleo Noel, U.S. Ambassador to Sudan in 1973; 63 
Americans killed at the bombing of U.S. barracks in Lebanon in 1983; an 
American serviceman killed during the hijacking of TWA Flight 847 in 
Lebanon in 1985; wheelchair-bound Leo Klinghoffer was murdered aboard 
the Achille Lauro in 1985; 259 Americans were killed aboard Pan Am 
Flight 103 over Scotland in 1988; six people killed in the bombing of 
the World Trade Center garage in 1993; 19 Americans killed in the 
bombing of the Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia in 1996; 247 people killed 
in the bombing of the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, and 10 people 
killed in the bombing of the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania 
in 1998; 17 sailors killed in the attack on the USS Cole in Yemen in 
October 2000.
  Mr. Speaker, H.R. 911, the National Memorial to Victims of Terrorism 
Act, would authorize the creation of a living national memorial in our 
Nation's Capital to all of the victims, past, present and, 
unfortunately, future, killed in terrorist attacks against the United 
States or its people, including those killed in the horrific September 
11 attacks.
  The bill would authorize the creation of an advisory board whose 
members would be appointed by the President, the Speaker of the House, 
and the majority leader. The board would be responsible for raising all 
necessary funds to design, construct, and maintain the memorial. Today, 
we have an opportunity to acknowledge the thousands of victims whose 
lives have been lost through acts of terrorism in our history by 
establishing this memorial in their honor.
  While we cannot completely repair the damage that has been done by 
terrorists that hate liberty and freedom, we can provide some assurance 
that their memories will not be lost.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 911, as amended.
  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. TURNER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from California (Chairman 
Pombo) for his outstanding leadership on this very important piece of 
legislation, H.R. 911, creating a national memorial to the victims of 
terrorism. I also want to thank the subcommittee chairman, the 
gentleman from California (Mr. Radanovich) for his help and work on 
this bill, which we have been involved in for the past 2 years. I also 
want to thank the ranking minority member of the full committee, the 
gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall) and the ranking member of the 
subcommittee, the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs. 
Christensen) for their work.
  This bill originated shortly after September 11 of 2001 and, in the 
past Congress, was cosponsored by the chairman of the Committee on 
Resources, the then chairman, Jim Hansen, who retired and who worked 
very hard in putting together the initial version of this bill. So I am 
very grateful for the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo) and the 
other Members who have supported this concept and have worked to make 
this bill one that we believe will be successful, one that will pay 
tribute and memorialize the victims of terrorism.
  We have had over 218 Members of the House join in cosponsoring this 
bill. The occasion of September 11 always reminds us of the tragic 
events of 2 years ago. On that day, the attacks took thousands of 
innocent lives and changed the history of our Nation and of our world. 
Although it has been 2 years, the terrible images of that day, the 
pictures of the towers and flames, the horrors of the onlookers in 
lower Manhattan, the workers who rushed into the Pentagon to help save 
their colleagues, the determined faces of firefighters at Ground Zero 
and at the crash site in Pennsylvania all remain vividly in our 
memories. We can still feel the emotions of that day, our feelings of 
horror, anger, grief, and, most importantly, our commitment to ensure 
that this would never, ever happen again.
  We know now that September 11 of 2001 was the beginning of what we 
might call a new world order. No longer would military might alone 
protect us. We know today that our world has grown smaller, and that 
our security is threatened not only by nations, but also by a small 
band of dedicated terrorists who hide in the shadows and who willingly 
use suicide missions to kill thousands of innocent victims. The savage 
attacks of September 11 made clear to all that war had been declared 
against America by a cruel and calculating foe, one that seeks to 
destroy this Nation, to take away our freedoms and liberties that form 
the bedrock of our great society.
  Never before have so many Americans been killed on our own soil in a 
single day. The terrorists took the lives of over 3,000, fathers and 
mothers, husbands and wives, sons and daughters, citizens of America, 
and 80 other countries around the world. Since then, Americans have 
come together as a Nation to remember those who lost their lives and to 
pledge our unwavering resolve to win the war on terrorism, whatever the 
cost, and whatever the length of the battle.
  As part of our commitment to defeat terrorism in all of its forms and 
to never forget the precious lives that have been lost throughout these 
years, this legislation, H.R. 911, would authorize the establishment of 
a national memorial to all victims of terrorist acts against the United 
States, including those who lost their lives on that fateful day 2 
years ago.
  The national memorial created in this bill would not only be 
dedicated to the memory of the victims who lost their lives at the 
hands of terrorists; it would be a living memorial where future 
generations of young Americans will come to learn about the challenges 
America faced when confronted by an enemy that knew no national 
boundaries and that used unconventional methods, including suicide 
attacks, to spread fear, death, and destruction.
  It is my hope that this memorial will chart America's journey in the 
war against worldwide terrorism and will someday show the world how 
freedom, liberty, and justice overcame oppression, cowardice, and 
fanaticism.
  This legislation creates a 13-member advisory board appointed by the 
President, the Speaker of the House, and President pro tempore of the 
Senate, and includes representatives from organizations dedicated to 
assisting the victims of terrorism. This advisory board will guide the 
design, the location, and will provide the leadership in raising the 
private funds necessary for the establishment and maintenance of the 
memorial. In accordance with the Commemorative Works Act, the advisory 
board will consult with the appropriate commissions regarding site 
selection and design.
  When the House Committee on Resources first held a hearing on this 
bill last year, each of us were deeply moved by the stories of several 
Americans whose lives were permanently changed on September 11. Among 
our witnesses were Lisa Beamer, whose husband Todd was among the heroes 
of Flight 93. Todd was the young American who said, ``let's roll.'' 
Another of our witnesses was a staff member, a then staff member of the 
Committee on Resources, Liz Howell, whose husband was killed at the 
Pentagon. We also heard on that day from Joe Finley, a New York 
firefighter, who lost many friends in the World Trade Center and who 
worked in the rescue efforts at Ground Zero. Finally, we heard from 
Lieutenant Colonel Ted Anderson, who personally pulled victims from the 
burning Pentagon.

                              {time}  1115

  All of these spoke of the need for a national memorial to the victims 
of terrorism in the District of Columbia. The stories of these 
individuals remind us of the tragedy, the sacrifice, the heroism that 
marked that day. Each of them represents the spirit of the bravery and 
patriotism that arose in America's darkest hour. Each of them expressed 
in a very personal way the meaning that a national memorial would have 
to them.
  Liz Howell so eloquently stated, ``I believe a national monument to 
terrorism would become a hallowed place for the people of this 
generation to remember and grieve. Perhaps even more importantly, it 
would teach future generations about the heroism, sacrifice, and 
patriotism that surrounded the deaths of people who died simply for 
being Americans.''

[[Page H8209]]

  Lisa Beamer in her testimony said, ``It is my hope and expectation 
that the Memorial to Victims of Terrorism will motivate current and 
future generations to always be vigilant in protecting us from evil and 
always be practicing for great acts of heroism. If these lessons of 
September 11 are learned and remembered, the deaths of our loved ones 
will not be in vain.''
  Lt. Colonel Ted Anderson who rushed into the Pentagon on that fateful 
day, put it this way, ``This is about a memorial to those who have 
fallen already and it is about a physical symbol of our unified 
commitment to persevere, prevail, and to preserve the sanctity of our 
endeavor and freedom and peace for our open people and for those who 
choose to join us.''
  Mr. Speaker, it is indeed altogether fitting and proper that we 
remember and honor all victims of terrorism here in our Nation's 
capital. This memorial will mark the time in the course of our Nation's 
history when freedom and the respect for the dignity of man overcame 
prejudice, hate, and evil. It will stand for the time in our Nation's 
history when our country stood tall, persevered, and defended peace and 
civility for all mankind.
  I know every Member of this House will join in adoption of H.R. 911.
  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. POMEROY. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Frelinghuysen).
  Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from New Jersey thanks 
the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo), the chairman of the 
Committee on Resources, for yielding to me; and I thank him for his 
vision of this national memorial. I congratulate the gentleman because 
in coming from the New York-New Jersey region, we particularly salute 
him for helping us remember so many people who lost loved ones.
  Mr. Speaker, today we reflect on the event of September 11, 2001, and 
express our deep sorrow, grief, and heartache for the victims of that 
tragic day and pledge never to forget them. There were about 700 New 
Jerseyans who were lost in those attacks and many more from New York 
State, other States and from other nations, as well as we remember 
today the lives lost at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania.
  In the face of terrorist attacks, we witnessed the remarkable bravery 
of EMS and first aid men and women, firefighters and police officers, 
including many from my State who were first on the scene, who 
selflessly raced into the heavily damaged World Trade Center towers to 
aid and rescue those in need. It was not until later that we learned 
that so many of them never made it out. Today we will remember their 
bravery and pay our respects to their families.
  Like so many of us, I was touched by many heartbreaking stories and 
pleas from families, but one encounter I had continues to resonate with 
me and remind me of the tragedy of that day. On a cold, blustery, early 
morning in October of last year, a man walked up to me at a train 
station and said, ``Congressman, I am angry.'' My first thought was 
that he did not agree with one of my votes in Congress or he did not 
like the outcome of a constituent case matter that we had tried to help 
him with. But then he said, ``I lost my brother in the World Trade 
Center on September 11 and I want you to be angry too. I want you to 
never stop being angry.''
  Before leaving the train station that morning and having heard this 
man's plea, I walked over to a tree planted in memory of the victims of 
September 11, many of whom came from that small town. There was a 
plaque in part that read under the tree and I quote, ``We shall never 
forget our friends and neighbors who rode the rails with us that 
morning but did not return with us that night.''
  We will forever remember the victims who died at the hands of such 
evil men on that day. And I think we can also promise that we will 
never stop being angry over the attacks on our country, and this 
memorial proposal by the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo) and the 
ranking member and his committee may help in that regard.
  Ensuring the safety and security of our Nation and my State is my 
duty. To protect our communities and neighborhoods, we are continuing 
to implement a variety of strategies for homeland security. That 
includes full and unfledged support for our police officers, 
firefighters and first aiders, defense against bioterrorism, security 
at our ports, harbor crossings, railroads and road networks, and new 
procedures and standards for preparing and standards when responding to 
emergencies.
  Along with President Bush, I can assure you that the government at 
every level is responding to terrorist threats, working to track down 
every lead, and standing watch 24 hours a day against terrorism. We 
remain resolved and vigilant in our efforts. We know that our work will 
not be done until every American is free from fear of future terrorist 
attacks. This memorial, this excellent proposal, this excellent vision 
will be a living one as has been said, such that we will never forget.
  Mr. TURNER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may 
consume to the distinguished gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).
  (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked and was given permission to revise 
and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman very 
much on this very honored day to have the opportunity to join my 
colleagues and to thank the chairman for the wisdom of his committee 
and his leadership, and to thank my good friend, the gentleman from 
Texas (Mr. Turner), the ranking member of the Select Committee on 
Homeland Security, for his leadership and vision and for the expansion 
of the concept of 9/11, and that is that we value lives, we honor 
lives, we cherish life and the sacrifices that have been made, the 
enormity of the sacrifice that was made on 9/11, that struck a chord at 
the heart and soul of this Nation, where over thousands of Americans 
lost their lives and others lost their lives at the hands of the 
horrific act of terrorism.
  But yet this memorial, which will be comprised of individuals and 
family members and others who have experienced the pain of terrorism, 
speaks to all who have lost their lives under that terrible mantle. So 
today I think 9/11 is not only to recount where we were, this body, on 
9/11, 2001, this Congress had convened, Members were in meetings, and 
the Nation's business was being carried on. And then a singular and 
fateful day brought about a multitude of actions that will impact 
families around the world forever.
  I believe this memorial has a good sense to it, common sense like we 
would like to think Americans have. First of all, we cherish our 
Constitution. We do believe that we all are created equal as the 
Declaration of Independence so states, and we pride ourselves in having 
the unique Bill of Rights that gives us the right to freedom of 
expression and movement, freedom of religion. So out of that we have 
been able to have the longest democracy without violence amongst us. We 
fought wars, both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War; but we have 
maintained a sense of appreciation for the ability to disagree. We have 
not taken up the sword against each other to be able to make our point. 
This body exemplifies democracy and is a tribute to those who lost 
their lives in terrorist acts, that we would not fall under the sword. 
So this morning I rise to pay tribute to the beautiful and wonderful 
families of these brave victims. The legacy will live on.
  I also acknowledge that we as a Nation will toll bells and lay 
wreaths and we will have a number of silent moment, reflecting upon the 
spirit and as well, the joy in the lives that were lived. But as this 
committee, the Select Committee on Homeland Security, was, in fact, 
instituted, we are strong. Our hearts are filled with resolve. Our 
hearts are filled with love and admiration for those who have survived 
and yet those who do not live.
  We are resolved that as we promote memorials and honor this day, that 
we will never forget the reason and the cost. The reason was because we 
live in a democracy and out of that we generate hatred. The cause is to 
preserve the democracy and to continue to celebrate with excitement and 
joy the fact that those brave souls who died at Ground Zero, in the 
field in Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon did not die in vain. I 
believe we have challenges this morning, Mr. Speaker, to enhance our 
first responders, the men and women in blue, our firefighters, our

[[Page H8210]]

neighbors, to provide them with the full funding that they need to 
fight the war on terrorism right in our own backyards.
  We need to be able to secure this Nation, not out of fear, but out of 
resolve. We need to promote the Constitution and cherish it as well. 
Proudly we need to boast that we are a democracy and we do believe in 
freedom. And I would say, Mr. Speaker, that we clearly do not ever need 
to stop commemorating this day. Never do we need to say enough is 
enough. For evil is amongst us and will continue to be so. And the only 
way that we can overcome it is to be the walking, living legends of the 
democracy of this Nation.
  What we do in this body reflects every day the tribute to those who 
lost their lives. I do applaud the vision of those who are not fearful 
of monuments and memorials in times to consider the bounty of this 
Nation.
  Might I take this day as well acknowledging that it is a sad day 
because it is a commemorative day, to be able to challenge our friends 
and neighbors, to be on the battlefield for justice and democracy, to 
fight against discrimination, to recognize a principle that I think is 
very important, that immigration does not equate to terrorism. I would 
think that as this particular legislation will move that we will have 
an enthusiastic response. It will be probably as emotional in its 
passage, comparable I guess maybe to the good times in the history of 
this Nation, maybe and maybe not.
  It will come to be as the inspiration that Francis Scott Key received 
as he wrote the ``Star Spangled Banner,'' as he saw the flag still 
waving amidst the violence of explosion and bombs and cannons and the 
rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the 
night that the flag was still there.
  Mr. Speaker, I came to this floor because I believe that America 
should never forget, and I would challenge Americans never to be too 
tired, too dated to be able to pay tribute to those who walked in 
freedom, those who gave their lives and particularly were willing to 
challenge and stand up to terrorists.
  Today, as a member of the Select Committee on Homeland Security and 
as an American, I join with the world family and solicit them not only 
to honor those who have lost their lives through terrorist acts, and 
particularly those who lost their lives in 9/11, but I challenge them 
to make freedom real and to make the fight against terrorism 
particularly real.

                              {time}  1130

  Let us not do it against each other, but let us do it in unity. So in 
the words of Martin Luther King, I ask that this Nation and the world 
walk in freedom.
  I ask as well that we stand up to the finish and never give up. Then 
I will say that I ask that we pray for justice, to stand united 
resisting injustice. I believe if we do that, the prayers of those of 
us who some day will look to a world of peace where terrorism has been 
stomped out will have a memorial like 9/11 to remind us and the lives 
of those who died on 9/11 and would cherish those who have been the 
victims of terrorism that we will say to them that we have never, never 
given up.
  God bless this Congress. God bless America. God bless all of those 
who will stand with us to fight against terrorism.
  Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished gentleman for yielding me this 
time, and I thank the authors of this resolution for giving us all this 
opportunity to reflect upon what September 11 meant to us, and to our 
districts, and to the Nation.
  It is a beautiful day today. There are just a few fluffy clouds 
scattered across our stunning blue skies. Across the Nation, people are 
working, playing, traveling, taking care of business and their 
families, and by and large, going about their normal lives. It is day 
much like that day 2 years ago, the day of the horrific events in 
Washington, New York City, and Pennsylvania. It is a testament to the 
tremendous resolve and strength of the American people that so quickly 
we have come back, almost to a state of normalcy.
  But 2 years later, life still is not really back to normal. Over 
3,000 innocent Americans are no longer with us. In a flash of violence, 
they have been snatched from us--a blow to their friends and families 
that has been felt by every American. Among the victims were people 
from every walk of life and every ethnic group. The list included 
Barbara Olson, who fought steadfastly for the things in which she 
believed. Although we sat on opposite sides of many issues, I will 
always consider her to be an honored member of the Houston family. We 
as a Nation will toll bells, lay wreaths and have moments with no words 
at all planned for the sad commemoration of the terrorist assault that 
killed more than 3,000 of our mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers. 
Our hearts go out to the families of those victims as well as to those 
who have served and still serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom and post-war 
efforts to rebuild Iraq.
  Two years ago today, many of us, as Americans, might have been asking 
the questions: Why is this happening? Who are we? How are we going to 
get through this? These are questions that almost every people in the 
history of civilization has been forced to ask. But the answers that we 
have come to, and the ways we have risen to the challenges that face 
us, have been uniquely American and have truly made me proud to be a 
member of this great nation.
  The terrorists who attacked us on September 11, 2001 might have 
thought that in that horrific act of violence that we would crumble. 
They might have expected that because we came from all walks of life 
and spoke different languages when we first came to this Nation, that 
because we cherish our respective cultures, that the coalition would 
disintegrate. They thought that we would no longer be America, that we 
would desert each other and that we would fragment into a mosaic of 
isolated groups based on ancestry. They thought we would put up 
barriers, pointing fingers and accusing each other.
  But we fooled them because America is still a nation, not just of the 
free, but also of the brave. It is in fact a very special place; and to 
a greater extent than any other time in our lifetimes, Americans stood 
united. America was built on diversity, by ships of pilgrims, by those 
in the bottoms of slave-ships and by others who walked across our 
borders. That diversity will not be our downfall; it is our greatest 
strength. We did not undermine our democratic ideals or attack our 
Constitution. We stood firm.
  As we of Congress gathered last year in the historic Federal Hall in 
New York City, and then as we came together again before the Pentagon, 
one sight brought peace and hope to my troubled heart--a great symbol 
that has inspired so many people around the world over the past two 
centuries. As I watched our flag began to blow in that morning's wind, 
it reminded me of the words of Francis Scott Key. I understood why he 
was so moved to write the ``Star Spangled Banner,'' for as he looked up 
into a war-torn sky, alight with violent explosions, he wrote:

     And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
     Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.

  It was not despite the war raging around him that he was able to 
contemplate his passion for America; indeed, it was because of it. What 
might cause some to flee and desert their Nation, illuminated Old 
Glory, enlightened him and gave him the inspiration to write one of the 
most wonderful testaments to what being an American is. It was that 
same spirit of courage in the face of danger, demonstrated in 1814, 
that was powerfully embodied by those who died on Flight 93 in 
Somerset, PA. When they recognized the horror that befell them, they 
were inspired to do what needed to be done to prevent further 
bloodshed, and they acted heroically.
  As a member of Congress, I commend their actions. But also, as one 
person who was hard at work that very day inside the Capitol Building--
the intended target of the fourth vicious attack--I, Sheila Jackson-
Lee, owe a personal debt of gratitude to those who lost their lives 
that day, and their friends and family who survive. I humbly thank them 
all.
  Today I would also like to salute those first responders who helped 
us all survive: the police, the firefighters, the paramedics, all the 
medical professionals, and just plain ordinary people, the volunteers, 
the men and women of the United States military who continue to stand 
at the front line of freedom and opportunity and justice, the unsung 
heroes, many of whom did not live to write their own songs, to tell 
their own stories. We honor them all, the survivors and the deceased, 
and all of their families. We honor them and thank them for their 
sacrifices.
  I spoke last year to a man who lost his wife in Somerset, PA, and his 
words were chilling to me. It reminded me of the importance of the 
resolve of this Nation and of this government. He said simply, ``I do 
not understand. I'm still living through this. I do not know how I'm 
going to get through it,'' For him and for the Nation, this fight is 
not over. That gentleman, however, may take comfort in the way that 
America has come together, in knowing that anytime America is attacked 
that no American will stand alone, but instead we will stand together 
arm-in-arm.

[[Page H8211]]

  The U.S. government came together, with State, local, and Federal 
officials working as one. In a country the size of America, there will 
always be missteps, but for the most part, although we were diverse, we 
did not use this time to attack any culture, or believers of any faith 
or any distinctive ethnic group. We came together.
  Again I think back to last year at the Pentagon, a building that has 
long been a tremendous symbol of strength, and is now also an 
embodiment of the American ability to survive. Though the smoke and 
dust has settled at the Pentagon, a haze remains over America. We are 
still in a fight for justice, a fight against terrorism, in an ongoing 
war for freedom. But I know in my heart that we will emerge from that 
haze. Through it we will see that same flag seen by Francis Scott Key. 
For in response to his question:

     O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
     o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

  I answer with a resounding and unequivocal, ``Yes. It surely does.''
  God bless America and God bless its people.
  Mr. TURNER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  Mr. Speaker, in closing, I again want to thank Chairman Pombo for his 
leadership on this legislation along with the gentleman from California 
(Mr. Radanovich) as well as their Democratic counterparts, the 
gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall) and the gentlewoman from the 
Virgin Islands (Mrs. Christensen). They have done an outstanding job in 
helping us put this bill together along with the 218 cosponsors who 
joined us.
  Also, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the staff who worked on this 
bill over the last 2 years to be sure that it was in the proper form to 
accomplish our objective. On the majority side, Rob Howarth did an 
excellent job working on this bill, David Watson on the minority staff 
as well, and Trent Ashby and Amy Valentine on my staff. And we 
appreciate their good work.
  Mr. Speaker, I would urge the House to adopt H.R. 911, legislation 
creating a national memorial to the victims of terrorism.
  Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time
  Mr. POMBO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to thank the gentleman from 
Texas (Mr. Turner) for his perseverance in moving this bill through the 
process. This has been a long time in coming. It is a bill that has 
passed the House previously. I look forward to this bill being enacted 
and being signed into law. And I urge my colleagues to support the 
bill.
  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?
  Mr. POMBO. I yield to the gentleman from Michigan.


                   Request to Add Member as Cosponsor

  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that my name be added 
as a cosponsor before we pass this legislation.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Petri). The Chair will not recognize 
that request. The gentleman must go through the sponsor and be added.
  Mr. TURNER. I certainly would welcome the cosponsorship, Mr. Speaker.
  Mr. POMBO. Mr. Speaker, reclaiming my time, I would just urge my 
colleagues for an aye vote on the legislation.
  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1538, 
``The True American Heroes Act'' and H.R. 911 to create a ``Memorial 
for Victims of Terrorism.'' Enacting both of these important bills 
today is a fitting tribute to the victims of the terrorist attacks 
launched against the United States two years ago this morning.
  The September 11 attacks were devastating, but our Nation was never 
weakened. The attacks were perpetrated because of the terrorists' 
hatred of the American values of liberty, democracy and equality. 
Hundreds of the victims were parents working hard every day and praying 
for better futures filled with love and hope for their children. Some 
victims were young children on their first airplane flight. Others were 
sons and daughters, the pride of their families, making it on their own 
in New York City. Twenty were U.S. soldiers, thirty-three were sailors, 
sixty-one were federal civilian employees, and nine were Army and Navy 
contractors beginning their morning at the Pentagon, and all of them 
were living the American dream. Ordinary Americans were transformed 
into heroes as the two jets brought down the World Trade Center, when 
the third tore into the Pentagon, and when the fourth was thrust into a 
Pennsylvania field. Two years from September 11, we remember and honor 
those brave Americans, their sacrifice, and we promise to never forget 
them.
  Our nation has remained robust because our strength derives not from 
tall skyscrapers or fleets of airliners, but because America is defined 
more by its values than borders, and is defined less by our past than 
by our promise. Rarely have those values of democracy and freedom been 
more clearly demonstrated in our country's short history than on 
September 11, 2001. As the gravest moments arrived, many ordinary 
citizens fueled by instinct, courage and grace, rushed toward the 
flaming buildings in order to rescue their fellow Americans or to 
overwhelm terrorist-controlled cockpits in order to defeat their 
destructive plans.
  Every community was shocked and scarred by these catastrophes. My 
hometown of Chicago suffered the loss of five women, who left their 
friends and family bereft. But more than shock or horror, generosity, 
strength and selflessness characterized Chicago's response. Although my 
city is a thousand miles away from New York, Chicagoans rushed to 
assist New Yorkers, Pentagon workers, and rural Pennsylvanians and 
support them as our neighbors. Whether they were Chicago firefighters 
hurrying to Ground Zero or school children writing letters to comfort 
their fellow pupils in New York, Chicago responded with its renowned 
heart and generosity. And so did every community across the country.
  Mr. Speaker, we observe September 11 not only to recognize the lives 
cut short by hatred, but also to honor the genuine American heroes. 
These many men and women include firefighters, police officers, 
paramedics, emergency technicians, and all rescue workers who cast 
aside concern for their own safety to rush to save the lives of other 
Americans in harm's way. Their bravery and commitment serve as shining 
examples of why they remain role models that our children emulate.
  We must also pause today to honor the sacrifices and continuing 
heroism of our courageous service men and women who left family and 
friends in order to defend our nation in the global war against terror. 
U.S. troops are fighting, sacrificing and serving extended tours of 
duty so that the men, women and children of Afghanistan, Iraq and other 
nations suffering under the heavy burden of tyranny and terror may 
share the freedom and inalienable human rights that Americans enjoy. We 
owe them our resolve to defeat terrorism, and to ensure that here at 
home leaders are charting the proper course.
  Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate to reflect today on how we as a nation 
can better demonstrate American values. As we nurture burgeoning 
democracies beyond foreign shores, we must also align our priorities 
with human rights and with freedom here at home. Let those left behind 
pay tribute to those who died by reaffirming our commitment as a nation 
to freedom and defense of human dignity, and in so doing keep our 
nation strong. To that end, I strongly support this legislation 
creating a memorial for the victims of terrorism, and ensuring that our 
public safety workers have all the resources that they need to do their 
jobs continuing to prepare and protect America.
  Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, in marking the second anniversary of the 
terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we remember and honor the 
3,000 innocent men, women and children who lost their lives that day. 
We continue to grieve with, and reach out to, the families of the 
victims.
  We also continue to express our gratitude to our ``First 
Responders.'' We should take a moment, again, to honor and thank the 
firefighters, police officers, and other emergency personnel who 
continue to put their lives on the line, day in and day out, to protect 
us from dangers, both foreign and domestic.
  On the solemn anniversary of these terrible attacks, we are reminded 
that a terrorist is, by definition, a coward--a person who cannot get 
what he wants by the power of persuasion and therefore resorts to 
killing innocent people. The attacks of September 11, 2001, were basic 
violations of the fundamental principle that life is to give, not to 
take. We must continue to show the world that the forces of evil shall 
not prevail. We pray for the brave American men and women serving in 
our Armed Forces, and we continue to pray for the victims and their 
families and wish them strength as they carry on in spite of their 
tremendous loss.
  Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, we learn from the Bible in Romans 12:21, 
``Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good.'' In the a.m. 
hours of September 11, 2001, a great evil befell America. Around 3000 
lives were lost and over 281 million American felt the pain of their 
passing. Two years later we still feel that loss.
  Victims of this terrible tragedy came from all across this country, 
including Dr. Paul Ambrose of my home state of West Virginia, a 
talented and public-spirited young physician, was on the airplane that 
the terrorists crashed into the Pentagon.

[[Page H8212]]

  The two grand towers of New York City, the symbol of our Nation's 
strength here in Washington, DC, a field in Southern Pennsylvania, and 
America itself was struck a mighty blow two years ago, but on that day, 
the enduring spirit of the United States of America overcame evil with 
the human goodness and love of their fellow man and woman.
  In the aftermath of the attacks, Americans across our great land, 
including my home State of West Virginia, volunteered their services. 
Policemen, firemen, doctors, nurses, steelworkers, construction crews, 
plumbers, electricians, engineers, including members IOUE's National 
Hazardous Materials Program based in Beaver, West Virginia. Don Carson, 
the program's director, and a team of workers from the Beaver facility 
were among the first out-of-state workers to arrive at Ground Zero 
immediately after the September 11th terrorist attacks. They and many 
more giving individuals put their lives on hold to help in the search 
for the lives of others and to assist in the immense job of rebuilding 
New York, Washington, DC, Pennsylvania, and the rest of America.
  But, there was one thing they did not have to rebuild and that was 
America's resolve. Never had its presence been stronger. We suffered 
the worst attack on our own soil against civilians that this country 
has ever experienced, and though the number of lives lost was 
devastating, the world witnessed America's resolve on that fateful day.
  Partrick Henry told us in the beginnings of what would be the most 
powerful Nation in the world, ``United we stand. Divided we fall.'' 
Americans from all creeds, all religions, all backgrounds, from north 
to south, east to west, united behind each other that Tuesday morning 
and for the days that followed, proving Patrick Henry's words true. 
Though the World Trade Center towers eventually collapsed under great 
stress from heat and pressure, for the last two years America never 
waffled.
  I am proud to be an American today, and I am proud to say that many 
my fellow West Virginians have given of themselves so much to those who 
suffered two years ago and who still feel the pain of loss. We have 
stood together in the face of great, unspeakable tragedy and we will 
continue to stand together in the face of triumph.
  May God bless this great Nation, and give us the strength to serve 
his will.
  Mr. POMBO. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time for debate has expired.
  Pursuant to the order of the House of Wednesday, September 10, 2003, 
the previous question is ordered on the bill, as amended.
  The question is on the engrossment and third reading of the bill.
  The bill was ordered to be engrossed and read a third time, was read 
the third time, and passed, and a motion to reconsider was laid on the 
table.

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