[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Pages 16556-16562]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  IN REMEMBRANCE OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2001

  Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I rise today in honor of those in New 
York, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania who lost 
their lives 1 year ago today.
  None of us in the Senate will ever forget the events of that terrible 
morning, nor will we ever forget the courage and compassion displayed 
by Americans everywhere in response to the attacks.
  Today, my thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, 
and all of those who risked their lives to save others on that awful 
day. The despicable acts that we witnessed were meant to create havoc 
and to test our resolve as Americans. America passed that test. We are 
stronger and more united as a Nation today than we ever were. Despite 
the fact that our buildings were damaged, America's foundations remain 
unshaken. And despite the fact that 3,000 of our friends, relatives, 
and neighbors were murdered, America's sense of community is stronger 
than ever.
  This morning, many of us took part in a memorial service across the 
river at the newly restored Pentagon. One year ago today, that building 
was on fire. One of its five sides essentially lay in ruin.
  Last September, I visited the Pentagon just days after the attack. It 
was a terrible scene of devastation. But today we saw a building that 
has been completely rebuilt. The Pentagon, both on the inside and on 
the outside, is better than before. The offices within are busy now 
with the activity of military men and women who are hard at work in the 
war against terror.
  The Pentagon, today, stands as a reminder of the American spirit and 
a warning to those who want to terrorize us: America will triumph, and 
those who want nothing less than to destroy our way of life will fail. 
They will fail because of the American spirit. They will fail because 
of our faith in freedom and democracy. They will fail because of the 
strength and character of the American people.
  I believe Americans have emerged from the attacks even stronger and 
more dedicated to our beliefs and to our Nation. But we cannot let our 
guard down again. We cannot forget that evil is lying in wait for 
another opportunity to attack. So far, we have been able to anticipate, 
with intelligence, any future attacks. But we know the enemy will try 
again.
  It has been said many times--but it bears repeating--it might not 
seem that we are at war, but we are at war. It is a different kind of a 
struggle than we have ever fought before.
  On the surface, it might not seem like World War II, Korea, Vietnam, 
or any other conflict of the past. Make no mistake about it, danger 
still lurks, and we must remain vigilant.
  Americans have made many sacrifices, big and small, over the last 
year. They gave blood and contributed to relief efforts. They became 
more vigilant in their communities. They volunteered to help those in 
need. We have come a long way since the attacks a year ago, and I could 
not be prouder of our people.
  In that time, I believe we have found new national unity, not only 
from the heroism of firefighters, police, and our military, but also 
from the everyday efforts of regular everyday Americans.
  I am proud of the way we in Congress responded to the attacks. By 
putting aside politics and working together with President Bush for the 
greater good, we have shown that, while we all wear political labels as 
Republicans and Democrats, we are Americans first.
  The President has done a superb job leading our country in the war on 
terror, and we in Congress have done our best to provide him with the 
resources necessary to persecute and win that war.
  Much has been done, but we must continue to remain focused on the 
task at hand--protecting our homeland. And that job continues tomorrow 
in the Senate. We will finish it, and we will finish it successfully.
  People often ask me how things have changed in Washington since 9/11. 
Some things on the surface certainly have changed. There are more 
concrete barriers, roadblocks, and security precautions, but looking 
beneath the surface, I think the better question to ask is, What did 9/
11 reveal about us? It showed that we are still a good and 
compassionate Nation and people. It showed that, under the worst of 
circumstances, we will come to the aid not only of our friends and 
neighbors, but to complete strangers. It showed that America is still 
the greatest nation on Earth, and it showed that, in the war on terror, 
we will prevail.
  I yield the floor, and I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Bayh). The clerk will call the roll.
  The assistant legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order 
for the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  The Senator from Louisiana.
  Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I will spend a few minutes remembering 
the day, as we all have taken some time to

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express our individual thoughts and honor this day in the best way we 
can, to express what it means for us, for all Americans, and actually 
for millions of people around the world.
  It is truly a somber day for all of us. In a nation that has known 
unparalleled success, coping with a tragedy of this enormity is all 
that more difficult. We love our liberty, we love our freedom, and we 
want nothing from the world or for the world but peace and prosperity. 
Yet today we find our liberty and our personal freedoms restrained. We 
are fighting one war and are poised on the brink of another. It is no 
wonder the anxiety of the American people is palpable.
  As we search for certainty and leadership in these uncertain times, 
it is only natural we turn towards one of our greatest leaders, Abraham 
Lincoln. As our leader during our greatest crisis, his words carry a 
resonance and wisdom that ring true today.
  President Lincoln's second inaugural address, delivered at the 
twilight of the Civil War, reads like a prayer. It is a request to God 
to show us how to be just, and to grant this Nation peace. Yet, while 
it is a prayer, it is also a plan. President Lincoln wrote:

       Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty 
     scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that 
     it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's 250 
     years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop 
     of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn 
     with the sword, as was said 3,000 years ago, so still must it 
     be said, the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous 
     altogether.
       With malice towards none, with charity for all, with 
     firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let 
     us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the 
     Nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the 
     battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may 
     achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves 
     and with all nations.

  President Lincoln asked for God's assistance, but also to shine a 
light on the righteous path to victory. We must finish the work we are 
in, but we must also care for the victims of war and do all we can to 
achieve a lasting peace.
  That is how President Lincoln wanted the Civil War to end. Not with 
recriminations that would tear the country apart forever and sow seeds 
for the next war but, rather, to approach victory with charity. For a 
powerful nation such as the United States, it is only in demonstrating 
our commitments to a world order that we can attain a lasting peace.
  It is only in our generosity to the struggling nations to the world 
we can enjoy the full fruits of our labors and the great bounties of 
our democracy. It is part of the twin ironies of being the sole 
superpower in the world. The first is that to preserve the peace, we 
must prepare for war. The second is that to attain any real victory, we 
must show mercy to those we have vanquished.
  Louisiana lost three sons on September 11: Petty Officer Second Class 
Kevin Yokum of Lake Charles, Navy LT Scott Lamana of Baton Rouge, and 
Louis Williams of Mandeville. The quick and expedient thing for our 
country would be to cry for their revenge and the revenge of the 
thousands of other Americans who died for freedom that day. Yet that is 
not America. It is not what these three men would have wanted. Rather, 
they would want to know that their deaths had helped to sow a lasting 
and just peace among ourselves and with all nations.
  So I join my colleagues today in saluting the heroism of these men, 
of the men and women who died and were wounded at the Pentagon, the 
heroism of the men and women of our great metropolis, New York, and the 
surrounding States and regions--of course, New Jersey lost many 
people--and the men and women aboard flight 93. Let their heroism be 
our inspiration to finish the work that we have at hand.
  We have a great amount of work ahead. We can be proud of the work we 
have accomplished in the last 12 months, any number of initiatives and 
bills and legislative proposals and endeavors that have really made 
this country much stronger, more secure than we were on this day, this 
hour, a year ago. But there is no doubt there is a great deal of work 
to be done. Let us remember that we will show leadership in our might 
and power. We will also show leadership in our mercy, in our 
willingness to leave this world to a much more just and fair place, 
where democracies rule the day and people can enjoy freedoms unheard 
of, really, and not yet experienced in the world. That is America's 
greatest challenge.
  I yield the floor.
  Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, one year ago today, September 11, 2001, 
terrorists attacked our country, killing almost 3,000 people. Each of 
us has, in the year since the attack, had our lives touched by the 
horrific events of September 11th. Each of us has, in the year since 
the attack, been shocked by the terrible images of destruction and 
suffering at the sites of these attacks--at the World Trade Center, in 
Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon. Paradoxically, each of us has also 
been uplifted by the stories of heroism and self-sacrifice that have 
emerged from around the country in the wake of these terrible events.
  From this act of war and hatred against all Americans, our country 
has demonstrated once again the resilient strength in the fabric of our 
people. Make no mistake about it: Our country is at war. But unlike 
past wars, we face a new challenge, a new type of enemy, one that is 
loosely organized throughout the world, with tentacles stretching into 
every corner of the globe, and one which is steadfast in its 
determination to defeat America.
  We cherish our freedoms, our opportunities, and our tolerance. But we 
remain vigilant in our determination to meet and defeat our enemy--
terrorists who threaten our security and our freedoms. Throughout our 
country's history, our people, its leaders, and Congress have 
demonstrated time and time again that when we work together--when we 
harness the full energy and commitment of our country--we can overcome 
any adversity or any enemy to our people. The tragic events of 
September 11th have united this country and challenged our country once 
again to face down the terrible threat of terrorism.
  Beginning with the PATRIOT Act, which was signed into law soon after 
the September 11th attack, and continuing today with the pending 
legislation to create a new Department of Homeland Security, I have 
been committed to aiding our country's fight against terrorism in order 
to defeat our enemy and make our homeland safe from future attacks. My 
commitment is strong and my determination is unwavering to ensure that 
our President has all the tools and resources needed to fight and win 
this war so that the scourge of terrorism is extinguished forever.
  In supporting the war against terrorism, I want to highlight some of 
the legislative measures that I have proposed or supported during the 
107th Congress.
  The Military Force Authorization Bill, P.L. 107-40, enacted September 
18, 2001: This bill provided President Bush with the full and necessary 
authority to use force against those who took part in the terrorist 
attacks.
  U.S.A. PATRIOT Act of 2001, P.L. 107-56, enacted October 26, 2001: 
This comprehensive anti-terrorism legislation provided new tools for 
law enforcement and for improved information sharing among Federal 
agencies to deter and protect against further terrorist attacks. The 
Act is tough on terrorists and those who harbor or assist them. The 
Act: one, increased criminal penalties for various terrorism crimes and 
money laundering schemes used to finance terrorists; two, reformed our 
immigration laws to ensure that suspected terrorists are denied 
admission into, or deported from, the United States; three, authorized 
the sharing of intelligence and criminal information among law 
enforcement and intelligence agencies to ensure that all information is 
available for preventing further terrorist attacks; four, updated law 
enforcement surveillance tools needed to investigate terrorists who use 
new communications and related technologies to conduct their terrorist 
schemes; and, five, required criminal background checks for commercial 
truck drivers transporting hazardous materials.
  Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Recovery from and Response

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to Terrorist Attacks on the United States, P.L. 107-38, enacted 
September 18, 2001: This bill provided $40 billion to support our 
country's war against terrorism, and provided substantial disaster 
assistance and recovery funds.
  Department of Homeland Security, H.R. 5005, pending before the 
Senate: This proposal is currently being considered by the Senate would 
create a new Department of Homeland Security, which would be 
responsible for preventing terrorist attacks, protecting our country's 
infrastructure from attacks, coordinating the review and analysis of 
intelligence information among intelligence and law enforcement 
agencies, and coordinating response efforts by federal and local 
response agencies.
  The Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act, P.L. 107-173, 
enacted May 14, 2002: This act tightened our border and visa policies 
by requiring the Immigration and Naturalization Service, the State 
Department, the FBI and Central Intelligence Agency to share 
information in order to identify individuals who may pose a terrorist 
threat to our country. In addition, the act: one, requires the State 
Department to issue visas and other travel documents which include 
biometric identifiers--i.e. fingerprints, retinal scan; two, mandates 
the INS to implement an entry-exit tracking system; three, requires the 
INS to install biometric scanners at all United States entry points; 
and four, provides greater access to law enforcement databases for INS 
and intelligence agencies. The act also increases funding for 
additional INS inspectors.
  Secure Transportation for America Act, P.L. 107-71, enacted November 
11, 2001: This act improved airport security for all United States 
travelers by adopting new and more stringent requirements for hiring of 
airport screeners to eliminate potential security risks; required 
airlines to install stronger cockpit doors to protect against possible 
forced entry into the cockpit and implemented the air marshal program 
to increase the presence of air marshals on all flights.
  The Public Health Safety and Bioterrorism Response Act, P.L. 107-188, 
enacted June 12, 2002: This act provides $1 billion to State and local 
governments to improve planning and preparedness, $450 million to the 
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to upgrade their capacities to deal 
with public health threats, and $1 billion to expand our current 
national stockpiles of medicines and vaccines. In addition, the act 
provides $200 million to protect our food supply and livestock and our 
drinking water from terrorist contamination.
  The Terrorist Bombings Convention Implementation Act, P.L. 107-197, 
enacted June 25, 2002: This act ratified and implemented the 
International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings, a 
United Nations treaty that seeks to suppress terrorist bombings and the 
financing of terrorism, and enhances our ability to extradite 
individuals responsible for terrorist bombings.
  While we have accomplished much, there is still much to do. Since 
September 11th, we all recognize that we live in a different and more 
dangerous world. We must unite in our continuing support for our 
country's war against terrorism; we live with an ongoing and serious 
threat to our society. We must remain vigilant in protecting our way of 
life and meeting the challenges ahead.
  I want to take a moment and offer my prayers and condolences for 
those families and friends who lost loved ones on September 11th. Today 
we all join together, hand-in-hand, heart-in-heart, tear-in-tear, to 
share as a country all of the pain of September 11th. We recognize your 
terrible loss, we offer you our support and we give you our love. We 
will never forgot the terrible tragedy of September 11th. We will do 
all we can in our prayers and in our deeds to make sure that such an 
attack never occurs again.
  It is a new era in America and I ask for your prayers and support as 
we face many difficult challenges ahead. We do so with a steely resolve 
to never, ever let this horrible event ever occur again.
  Mr. HOLLINGS. Mr. President, in the year since last September 11th, 
there has been much debate on the Senate floor on how to stop 
terrorists; and there will be plenty of time in the coming months to 
debate what we do insofar as organizing homeland security, and how we 
deal with Iraq and the fanatics who want to blow us up and the like.
  But on this September 11th, this Senator wants to remember the 3,000 
lives lost in New York, at the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania. Obviously 
their loss has been felt by their families in ways none of us can 
imagine. But their loss has also been felt by all Americans. As a 
Senator, in the last year, not a day has gone by when I haven't thought 
about what happened last September 11th, and what actions this Congress 
can take to prevent such horrifying events. September 11th has moved 
this nation to respond and to defend ourselves in ways that has made 
America stronger, I have no doubt.
  In addition, I want to honor the men and women in the armed forces, 
who have put their lives on the line in the last year to track down 
terrorists in caves and everywhere else they are hiding. I honor the 
law enforcement officials all over this country, who protect our 
homeland every day. And I have great respect for the newly hired men 
and women of the Transportation Security Administration, who are 
wearing the newest American uniform to ensure the safety of our 
airports.
  September 11th made us address our security vulnerabilities, but 
there is more work to be done. In the coming months, on days that are 
less emotional than this anniversary, I hope we remain as strong and 
determined to win the war on terrorism.
  Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, many of us will spend a good deal of 
this day reflecting on what happened one year ago in New York, 
Washington, DC, and Pennsylvania. The images of horror, confusion and 
bravery that dominated our television screens last September will, once 
again, be refreshed in our minds. The raw emotion that we felt then 
will also be revisited. And, as is our nature, we will, again, try to 
rationalize why such tragedy befell our Nation. But this effort will be 
futile, because those who attacked us are filled with a hatred that is 
incomprehensible to American logic. Simply put, for us, life is a 
precious gift of God; to our enemy, it is utterly dispensable. So how 
can we constructively approach September 11, 2002? I believe that 
Americans can do three things today to accomplish a sense of healing.
  The first step focuses on our children. No group was scarred as much 
by the terrorist attacks as were they. Their innocent view of the world 
did not contemplate the kind of evil that was perpetrated on September 
11, 2001. So for them, the images of crashing planes, burning 
buildings, and crying adults shattered their belief in a world that was 
good and safe. Not only were they frightened, they were also confused 
about why others wanted to hurt us. Today, many children may experience 
the same anxiety about terrorism that they did one year ago; let us 
recognize that and take a moment to reaffirm to them that they are 
loved, that they are protected, and that the good people in the world 
far outnumber the bad.
  Secondly, be a patriot. This can be accomplished in many ways. Flying 
the flag is the most recognized. But telling a service-veteran that you 
appreciate his or her sacrifice is equally valuable. The civic heroes 
of September 11th, firefighters and police officers, also deserve our 
recognition for selflessly responding to the needs of the country. And 
acts such as giving blood, helping a neighbor in need or giving to a 
charity are just as patriotic. All these acts have the effect of 
uniting us behind a common purpose and remind us that no enemy can 
weaken our moral fabric.
  Lastly, reflect back upon these words spoken by President Bush last 
September 20: ``We will direct every resource at our command--every 
means of diplomacy, every tool of intelligence, every instrument of law 
enforcement, every financial influence, and every necessary weapon of 
war--to the disruption and defeat of the global terror network.'' This 
bold commitment by the President signaled to all

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that the United States was entering a long struggle that would require 
our desire for action to be checked by patience.
  Patience, of course, remains necessary, but we have achieved much in 
our initial response to last year's attack. U.S. military action has 
unseated the Taliban government that once protected al-Qaida in 
Afghanistan, while terrorist training camps in that country have been 
rendered inoperable. At home, Congress and the President are working to 
establish a new Department of Homeland Security to enhance coordination 
of our government's anti-terror effort, both Chambers of Congress have 
passed the largest defense budgets in our Nation's history, and 
extraordinary effort has been made to improve air safety, intelligence 
gathering and counterterrorism methods. To be sure, our war on terror 
is just beginning, but we should remember that American action since 
last year's attack has been strong and has yielded positive results.
  Contemplating what happened to our country one year ago is difficult 
for all of us. It is difficult for the friends and family of flight 
attendant Al Marchand, a New Mexico native who was one of the victims 
aboard United Airlines flight 175. It is difficult for the urban rescue 
team that traveled from New Mexico to New York in hopes of finding 
survivors. But remembering those lost is a duty. Today, if we focus on 
our children, our communities and the progress we have made in the last 
year, we will honor the fallen as well as re-energize ourselves for the 
struggle ahead.
  Before I end, I want to make note of a poem I received from a young 
girl from Los Alamos, New Mexico. The title of the poem is ``Who Am 
I,'' and it reflects some of the very serious thoughts that the reality 
of terrorism has forced upon our young people, thoughts about humanity, 
and thoughts about whether peace can prevail. I ask unanimous consent 
to print this poem in the Record.
  There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in 
the Record, as follows:

                               Who Am I?

     A face, different from others around me.
     A name, unusual to outsiders, yet beautiful in meaning.
     A voice, bold but not abrasive when spoken to the world.
     To my parents, I am their pride, their courage.
     To my teachers, I am a word of exquisiteness.
     Me: lucky and fortunate to be here and to have what I have.
     In my family I am the listener and the speaker.
     To my friends, I am the fun and happiness.
     To my enemies, I am ignored like dust swept away.
     To many strangers, I am another face smiling in the crowd.
     My mind is mature, but there is much I don't know.
     I am a child in every way.
     Successes come and go, and I'm sure there will be 
           disappointments.
     I dream about the future and what it brings.
     I always remember the good things and seldom the bad.
     I forget the days when I was little, and they disappear into 
           vast space.
     People don't understand my thoughts, my culture, or 
           sometimes, just me.
     My frustration makes me want to be alone.
     Who am I?
     I am a voice with laughter, thoughts and opinion.
     A name with pride and courage.
     But most of all, a person waiting to fulfill a life of 
           wonders, dreams, and the happiness that comes with it.

       By Noopar Goyal,


                        Los Alamos, New Mexico,

                               May 2002.

  Mr. BINGAMAN. Mr. President, I rise today in remembrance of the 
events of September 11, 2001. It hardly seems that it was one year ago 
that New York City and Washington, D.C., awoke to an astonishingly 
sunny late summer day whose calmness belied the tragic events that 
would come that morning. While the passage of time has continued as it 
did before that day, our lives, our Nation, and the entire world have 
since been profoundly transformed.
  As that day unhinged one year ago, we all struggled to answer the 
questions that raced through our heads: ``Who is capable of such 
monstrous violence?'' ``Why would they do this to us?'' And like the 
families of the victims, many of us sat at the end of that long day and 
wondered: ``How do we go on from here?''
  A deep sense of loss and uncertainty permeated the Nation in the 
weeks that followed the attacks. But in spite of the somber mood, we 
did what Americans do best. United as never before, we found our 
resolve to forge ahead. We found strength by turning to family and by 
turning to our neighbors. We rededicated ourselves to the civic 
responsibility that is the cornerstone of freedom.
  While memory remains scarred by the worst act of terrorism on 
American soil, the past year has been a time for healing. Today, we 
continue to heal by remembering those who lost their lives on September 
11. We remember the men and women who worked at the World Trade Center, 
the military and civilian personnel at the Pentagon, the firefighters 
who did what they could to ease the tragedy, and the heroes of United 
Airlines Flight 93 who gave their lives to spare the Nation an even 
larger loss.
  Each day that passes will bring us a bit closer to becoming whole 
again. But we must all take time on this day to mourn those who lost 
their lives on September 11 and honor the heroes who saved so many 
lives. We must also keep in our thoughts the troops who are fighting 
overseas in defense of our nation.
  Today is about remembrance, but tomorrow is always about the future. 
Once again, we have to ask ourselves, ``How do we go on from here?'' 
And answer with certainty and strength. America will not be deterred by 
terrorism. Instead we will celebrate what it means to live as citizens 
of this country and honor our continued responsibility to advancing the 
freedoms that are the hallmark of this country.
  Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, I rise today, on this somber occasion, 
to remember and honor the thousands of lives that were lost one year 
ago today in the tragic terrorist attacks on our Nation. The United 
States will never forget the horrific events that occurred on what 
began as a peaceful morning of Tuesday, September 11, 2001. The 
tranquility of that morning was shattered by the evil acts of 
terrorists, filled with hatred for our Nation and opposed to the ideals 
we treasure. With their terror, our Nation was plunged into one of the 
darkest days of our history as thousands of Americans lost mothers and 
fathers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, friends and 
associates.
  However, during this tragedy, the American spirit shined through that 
darkness and continues today, as a beacon to the world. It is that 
spirit, the willingness to expend the last full measure of one's life 
in service to others, that is the strength of our Nation. It is a power 
that grows as we are challenged. It is a force which has helped this 
Nation through difficult times and will see us through these times as 
well.
  On that dreadful day, the terrorists failed miserably in their 
attempt to weaken our Nation. Their goal was destined for failure, for 
America has faced adversity numeorus times before and has always 
emerged stronger. The acts of heroism and charity by Americans in New 
York City, at the Pentagon, over the skies of Pennsylvania, here in 
Washington and across the Nation were extraordinary but not surprising.
  Today, I also honor the men and women of our Armed Forces. They serve 
around the world defending the freedoms we enjoy and securing the 
liberty we cherish. I have stated many times that the highest 
obligation of American citizenship is to defend this country in time of 
need. Our citizens have accepted that obligation, some giving their 
all. Whether serving abroad or at home, the men and women in uniform 
are performing in an outstanding manner and deserve the appreciation 
and respect of all Americans.
  History will not forget the events of this day. Likewise, we must 
never forget the thousands of Americans to whom we pay tribute today.
  Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, anniversaries are a time for reflection, 
and I wanted to take a few moments to share what emotions this North 
Dakotan is experiencing.
  First, I feel sorrow, I feel sorrow for the thousands of innocent 
victims and

[[Page 16560]]

the scores and scores of families and friends most directly and 
tragically affected. Those murdered were fathers and brothers, 
daughters and spouses; they were coworkers earning a living and 
supporting their families; they were best men in weddings, and mothers 
flying home to see their children.
  They were also honorable Americans, as well as citizens from 86 
countries around the world. The victims included North Dakotan Ann 
Nelson. Ann was the kind of daughter every parent wishes for, she was 
intelligent, caring, adventurous, and had a real zest for life. Ann was 
simply doing her job that day in the World Trade Center. Ann, the pride 
and joy of Stanley, ND, didn't make it home from work that fateful day.
  When I think about Ann and her family and the other victims and their 
loved ones, I also feel anger. One of my home State newspapers, the 
Grand Forks Herald put it best, ``Americans should accept that at the 
core of their grief is a white-hot fury and a sense of being 
outrageously wronged. . . . The World Trade Center didn't collapse in a 
strong wind. The Pentagon didn't fall into a sinkhole from an abandoned 
mine, and United Flight 93 didn't crash in a Pennsylvania field because 
it ran out of gas. No, those things happened because a band of 
terrorist fanatics slit the pilots' throats and then flew the planes, 
passengers and all, into the buildings for the mad glory of killing 
infidels by the score.''
  This North Dakotan's anger and sorrow also fuels my resolve. I feel 
resolve to continue working with members from both sides of the aisle 
and with our President to make sure we are doing everything in our 
power to protect North Dakotans and all Americans.
  Over the past year, we have enacted vital anti-terrorism legislation, 
including provisions I authored to shore up our visa and border 
security laws. And while we have paid more attention to the challenges 
of protecting our 4,000 mile northern border from terrorist 
infiltration, I continue in my resolve to focus the necessary attention 
and resources to get the job done right.
  So, I feel sorrow, anger, and resolve, but I also feel pride, pride 
in how our heroes performed that day in response to the attacks; pride 
in our police officers and firemen; pride in those risking their lives 
to save coworkers; and pride in members of Flight 93 who lost their 
lives to save countless others.
  I also feel pride at North Dakota's own, the Happy Hooligans, who 
minutes after the terrorist attacks took to the skies over Washington, 
protecting our Nation's Capital at this most critical time.
  I feel pride at the men and women in uniform, who have served and 
continue to serve in Afghanistan and across the world, with the 
unfailing twin goals of eradicating global terrorism and protecting 
their fellow citizens. I feel pride in the dedication of those 
reservists who have put their lives on hold to serve our country.
  I also feel pride in our country, and it is certainly appropriate 
that Congress and the President agreed to designate September 11 as 
``Patriot Day.'' September 11 brought out the best in our fellow 
citizens and showed us again why we are all so fortunate to be a part 
of the greatest Nation on earth. Rather than the disillusionment that 
the terrorists hoped for, our country responded with renewed 
patriotism.
  And finally, on this first anniversary of one of the darkest days in 
our country's history, this North Dakotan feels optimism. In times of 
challenge, moments of great opportunity also present themselves. In 
this instance, we stand at a critical time in our Nation's and the 
world's history, and the decisions we now make will influence the shape 
of our world in the 21st century and beyond.
  Will we live in a world of freedom or fear? Will democracy reign or 
will fanaticism retain its lure? Will our country try to build a wall 
around ourselves or will we continue to be a beacon of freedom, 
democracy, and tolerance around the world?
  Some fifth grade North Dakota students are planning to commemorate 
the September 11 attacks by planting trees at the International Peace 
Garden, just north of Dunseith, ND. The name of the program is ``Seeds 
of Peace.'' I have the optimism to believe that this is the perfect 
symbol to commemorate the first September 11 anniversary.
  Mr. NELSON of Nebraska. Mr. President, I am here on this day of 
remembrance to express on behalf of the National Funeral Directors 
Association and all Nebraskans our heartfelt sorrow for those who lost 
their loved ones on September 11, 2001. We Americans can be proud to 
declare the continued strength of our Union one year after this 
horrific act.
  The United States of America continues to stand as a beacon of 
freedom and opportunity for everyone, regardless of race, creed, or 
religious belief.
  The United States of America was founded on the fundamental principle 
that all citizens have the inalienable right of life, liberty, and the 
pursuit of happiness and the vitality of the United States of America 
is in the diversity of ideas, the freedom to express those ideas, and 
the opportunity to achieve one's potential and direct one's destiny.
  These principles are absolute and will not be surrendered or weakened 
by the cowardly acts of terrorists who are afraid of the sunshine of 
freedom and the responsibility it brings.
  On this day we must continue our unity, which reaffirms the 
principles for which this country was founded and that on this day 
freedom shall ring from every community in this great land and the 
voice of America will be heard around the world.
  Mr. TORRICELLI. Mr. President, we will always remember where we were 
on this day, 1 year ago. As on other moments of tragedy in American 
history, September 11 will forever be in our hearts and mind. For those 
who were lost, for those who gave of themselves to save others. On that 
day, we were all one. We were all Americans.
  When we reflect upon a tragedy such as this, there are many who come 
into our minds. We reflect upon the honored dead who we remember today, 
including the friends and family we lost. We think of our loved ones 
who are still with us today. We remember all of the firefighters, 
police and ordinary citizens who risked their lives to save people they 
often did not even know. We reflect upon the members of our armed 
forces who diligently work to protect us from any future tragedy.
  On this solemn occasion, I would like to take a brief moment to 
recognize the efforts of the members of the AFL-CIO on September 11 and 
its aftermath. Indeed, there were few others as affected by September 
11 than the labor community. The firefighters and police who bravely 
sacrificed and risked their lives were union members. The laborers, 
ironworkers, and operating engineers who helped dig for survivors while 
the fires still burned were union members. The nurses, doctors and EMTs 
who cared for the injured and dying were union members. Those who 
manned the ferries and fireboats that transported both the survivors 
and the bodies of the victims across the harbor were union members. 
Their efforts greatly affected the lives of many.
  In the aftermath, unions across America started up blood drives and 
the AFL-CIO Union Community Fund along with dozens of local and 
international unions raised relief funds for the families and children 
who have been left behind.
  On this day of solemn remembrance, I want to recognize all of the 
sacrifices of these valiant men and women. Their response to this 
tragedy was truly heroic.
  Mr. KOHL. Mr. President, today we remember the terrible events of 
September 11. A year has passed but for those who lost loved ones or 
sustained serious injuries in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade 
Center or at the Pentagon, the pain is still fresh and the loss is 
still palpable. Losing a loved one is always difficult but to 
experience loss as a result of a senseless act of terror can only 
compound the pain.
  For Americans in general, the sheer number of lives lost on September 
11 was a national tragedy. Those of us who did not lose friends and 
family also experienced loss on September 11, albeit a loss of a 
different kind.

[[Page 16561]]

  On September 11, we lost our sense of personal safety. The idea that 
terrorism could strike Americans going about their business, working in 
their offices or taking a simple plane ride for business or pleasure, 
has changed us forever. Travel by air will never be the same post-
September 11. And on a less tangible level, we are now cognizant that 
in a free society like ours terrorists cannot truly be contained. The 
threat of terrorism may subside but it will never disappear.
  On September 11, we lost our sense of trust. We have become more 
suspicious of those who want to enter our country. The Federal 
officials who protect our borders and control access to our country 
continue on heightened alert, on the lookout for aspiring terrorists. 
Our first responders, our local police and fire officers, have been 
tasked to survey our towns with a new eye and have entrusted all of us 
with the unsettling job of reporting suspicious activity in our 
neighborhoods.
  Most of all, on September 11, we lost our sense of national security. 
The attacks of September 11 brought with them the realization that our 
robust defenses, the biggest and best in the world, cannot protect us 
from terrorists. Our sophisticated planes, submarines, and missiles 
cannot deter a terrorist attack, and cannot protect us from the 
unconventional attacks we now know the al-Qaida terrorists were 
contemplating.
  Today, however, is not just a day to reflect on loss. Just as the 
stories of those who experienced personal loss on September 11 have 
evolved into stories of determination to carry on, our losses are 
tempered by resolve.
  We are resolved to uproot the terror cells which may now be lurking 
in as many as 60 countries, waiting for us to let down our guard so 
they can attack us at home or abroad. Working with our allies around 
the world we are determined to disrupt these cells by stopping their 
funding and prosecuting their members. We will also remain vigilant. To 
the best of our abilities, we will take all precautions to deny these 
terrorists the opportunity to strike again.
  We are resolved not to succumb to hate and to stereotyping of those 
who share ethnic or religious backgrounds with the terrorists. One of 
the biggest fears after September 11 was that there would be a backlash 
in this country against those of Middle Eastern descent or against 
adherents of Islam.
  While there were reports of hate crimes, many Americans reached out 
to their Muslim or Middle Eastern neighbors to reassure them--whether 
they were American citizens or just residents that they should not feel 
at risk. While the heinous acts of September 11 elicited many emotions, 
I was proud that most Americans recognized that taking our revenge 
against those who had nothing to do with Osama bin Laden would have 
sunk us to the level of the terrorists themselves.
  The threat of terrorism does have the potential to change the 
character of our nation. Just as we are vigilant about our physical 
security, we are resolved not to let terrorism curtail our freedoms. We 
must not allow the war on terror to infringe on the rights and 
liberties we hold dear. Terrorism will not go away, but it will have 
succeeded if we use it as an excuse to trample on the Constitution. The 
wonderful outpouring of patriotism which occurred this past year was 
not just an expression of national unity, it was a strong statement 
that we cannot and will not allow terrorism to undermine our democratic 
way of life.
  In the days after September 11, many Americans wondered how we would 
carry on. And yet we have carried on. We have danced at weddings, 
rejoiced in new babies, and it is the brave family members of those who 
perished on September 11 who have led the way: the mothers who gave 
birth without the presence of their husbands and the brides who walked 
down the aisle without their fathers. This has been a difficult year, a 
year of inconceivable loss, but a year which has been marked by resolve 
and a rededication to the ideals and principles upon which our Nation 
was founded.
  Mr. REID. Mr. President, I know Senator Jeffords and Senator Grassley 
are here. We are going to go out before 4 p.m. today, the reason being 
we have services for the Senate family, but that gives adequate time 
for everyone.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Iowa.
  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I rise today on this 1 year anniversary 
of September 11 to join my colleagues, as well as the rest of the 
country, in a day of reflection and remembrance. It is often said that 
time heals all wounds. Obviously, it is going to take an eternity for 
the grief to subside for the families of the 3,000 people mass-murdered 
last year, with the mental image of commercial jetliners searing into 
the national landmarks remaining fresh in our mind. If they do not, we 
are reminded of it by watching TV this very day and maybe all week.
  Such horrific acts that happened a year ago today seemed impossible 
at that time. But, of course, all that has changed. Now it is hard to 
understand how such hate and extreme acts of horror against humanity 
can take place. While the Federal Government is working to beef up the 
military to protect our borders and to improve its intelligence 
gathering, it is virtually impossible to guarantee a risk-free 
environment in a free and open society that we proudly claim as 
America.
  One year after the attacks, I am not so sure the American people 
really remember that we are in a war on terrorism. But the fact is, we 
are, and we will be for some time to come. I pray that we do not end up 
with a situation in the Middle East that we see too often on television 
where there are random suicide bombings. The risk exists and Americans 
are not realistic if they do not think of those things happening here 
like they might happen in Jerusalem. Terrorism has changed our way of 
life. We might be complacent about it and not want to realize it, but 
it is here. And every one of us, then, has a responsibility to remain 
vigilant.
  The 1-year anniversary of September 11 is an important reminder that 
the war against terror has not yet be won. Considering the loss of 
human life, imminent terrorist threats to our security, and even our 
ailing economy, it is not easy to look for the silver lining on the 1-
year anniversary of the September 11 attacks. But remember what the 
President said in the week after those attacks: The terrorists 
succeeded in tearing down bricks and mortar, but they failed to rock 
the foundation that has kept 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 
have been shattered. But the uncommon courage of first responders 
called to duty on that day reflects the steadfast spirit of our great 
Nation and our people called Americans. Our resolve to pull together 
and to stand united against evil immediately resurrected the principles 
on which this country was founded some 226 years ago. Despite the 
attacks, attacks defined to pit fear against freedom, the United States 
of America is yet stronger than ever.
  Like the rest of the country, lawmakers in Washington, DC, dropped 
partisan pretense, worked quickly to assist survivors, backed recovery 
efforts, ensured the safety of the flying public, and got the economy 
rolling again. The 107th Congress threw its support behind the 
President to root out the terrorist networks responsible for the 
attacks, realizing the war in Afghanistan is probably only one of many 
battles to be fought and hopefully won.
  Thanks to courageous service men and women, the al-Qaida network has 
been largely dismantled from its base in Afghanistan but not elsewhere. 
That evil continues to lurk in other regions of our world. And with the 
security of the American people first and foremost in our 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 or other places within our world.
  The President needs to make the case to the American people, to 
Congress, and our allies abroad, and he will do

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that hopefully within 48 hours, and do it in a way that says freedom 
and peace will remain at risk, as he explains it, until rogue dictators 
and others who harbor terrorists and finance their evil acts are no 
longer able to do those things.
  This month, the Senate is debating the proposal to realign the 
Federal Government's infrastructure and operations charged with 
thwarting acts of terrorism. I am working to make sure the new 
Department helps to solve the shortcomings exposed by September 11 and 
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 will work 
in this bill to see that new Department employees are guaranteed strong 
whistleblower protections and to strengthen accountability within the 
intelligence community. These protections for whistleblowers are very 
important to make sure our intelligence community and the homeland 
security is working for the good of the American people and to see the 
statutory requirements are carried out.
  When the Department of Homeland Security bill is up, I will make sure 
that hard-working taxpayers' money is not wasted with this new Federal 
agency.
  One year later, after September 11, life goes on in America. It is 
not the same as it was a year ago. Life is not as secure or risk free 
as we once thought it was--and maybe we should not have thought that it 
was, but we did. Air travelers deal with tightened security measures at 
the Nation's airports. People are staying closer to home, flying less. 
Ordinary Americans and law enforcement officials do not hesitate to 
report suspicious activity. For many, it has enhanced common courtesies 
and boosted greater appreciation for the simpler things of 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, 
particularly in New York City, to generous charitable cash donations, 
and to those serving in our military, Iowans are proud, compassionate 
Americans. Many agree that the tragedy a year ago has renewed a sense 
of civic duty, patriotism, and appreciation for the U.S. military. 
There is a spirit of all-for-one and one-for-all, as we wear, display, 
and decorate with all things red, white, and blue.
  With this 1-year anniversary, I join my colleagues in reflection and 
remembrance. While we go about our daily business, we can 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 cannot erase the sorrow and suffering brought by September 11, but 
with our actions each one of us can make America stronger.
  I remember this day especially Miss Kincade, from Waverly, IA, who 
was on the plane that hit the Pentagon. She was an intern in my office 
in 1984.
  I remember Mr. Edward V. Rowenhorst, whom I did not know but I know 
his brother who goes to my church in Cedar Falls, IA. He was in the 
Pentagon working.
  I remember traveling to a ceremony last Veterans Day in Anamosa, IA, 
where they honored one of their own who was also killed in the Pentagon 
1 year ago today.
  So Iowans, as most people in most States, have victims to remember. I 
remember them.
  I yield the floor.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Vermont.
  Mr. JEFFORDS. Mr. President, I rise to speak in morning business.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  Mr. JEFFORDS. Mr. President, today we as a nation commemorate a most 
unfortunate milestone, the 1-year anniversary of the tragic attack of 
September 11, a day that will sadly live in infamy. Since that time, 
much has been said and written about the terrible events of that day.
  As we reflect on the events of the past year, I would like to commend 
the thousands of rescue workers, volunteers, and countless others who 
helped rebuild our Nation in the months following the attacks. In 
particular, I would like to especially commend the work of the Federal 
Emergency Management Agency, fondly known as FEMA.
  To give some background, on August 15, 2001, I became chairman of the 
Environment and Public Works Committee, which has jurisdiction over 
FEMA. A short month later, terrorists attacked the Pentagon and the 
World Trade Center. Later that day, following the attacks, I visited 
the Pentagon. I was amazed that literally overnight FEMA had 
established a well-coordinated Federal response at the Pentagon. 
Virginia, Maryland, and other first responders came--from as far away 
as Nebraska. As soon as possible, they were all working, as coordinated 
as I have ever seen.
  As soon as possible after that, I traveled to the World Trade 
Center--again to take a look at FEMA's response. Again, I was 
overwhelmed by the organizational capacity of FEMA and the fine work 
being done by that agency's men and women, under the guidance of FEMA 
Director Joe Allbaugh. There, on the piers of Manhattan, FEMA had 
quickly created a disaster field office that was a small city unto 
itself. Thousands of workers from around the country came together to 
bring calm and order to an otherwise chaotic situation.
  Visiting the Pentagon this morning brought back a flood of memories 
for me about my own visits to the Pentagon and the World Trade Center. 
Just days after those attacks, I vividly remember the sights and sounds 
and smells. The devastation I witnessed was incredible, and difficult 
to put into words. Thousands of people lost their lives due to the 
cruel and cunning acts of evil perpetrated by a few. The victims of 
these attacks were men, women, and children, people with well-laid 
plans for their pleasant futures.
  Although I left both the Pentagon and the World Trade Center with a 
heavy heart, I also left with a profound sense of gratitude for the 
gallant efforts of these rescuers and volunteers who tirelessly, and 
mostly anonymously, worked in places reserved only for the Ground Zero 
heroes.
  In the year following the attacks, I have spoken with many people, 
Vermonters and others, about the attack. We have all expressed profound 
sadness for our Nation's great loss. They have also left me with the 
confidence that freedom will prevail, that good will triumph over evil, 
that these horrible attacks cannot break our resolve to stand together 
as free Americans.
  Abraham Lincoln once said:

       Freedom is the last best hope of Earth.

  Time is a great healer. The passage of time has brought thoughtful 
recollection. The passage of time has not dulled my recollection of 
what I saw and felt in those days following September 11. For me, this 
healing process has brought a renewed commitment to move forward with 
the hope that freedom prevails.
  In closing, I would also like to pay tribute to the work of the 
Vermont Air and National Guard, which did an outstanding job of 
protecting our skies and our borders and our airports in the days after 
September 11. When our Nation was most in need, we pulled together 
successfully to bring this Nation into a position where it feels secure 
and with hope for the future.
  I yield the floor and suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll.
  The legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. REID Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for 
the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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