    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [October 12, 2006]
    [Page 1846]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

     Statement on the Sixth Anniversary of the Terrorist Attack on the USS
    Cole
    October 12, 2006

        Six years ago, on October 12, 2000, Al Qaida attacked the USS Cole,
    a U.S. Navy warship refueling in Aden harbor in Yemen. This terrorist
    attack killed 17 sailors and injured many others, leaving the victims'
    loved ones and our Nation to mourn our collective loss.
        On the sixth anniversary of this attack, we pause to remember those
    brave service men and women whose lives were cut short by this act of
    terrorism and to give thanks to the brave crew whose heroic actions
    saved their ship and fellow shipmates.
        With the men we believe to be the key architects of that attack now in
    custody, this anniversary should serve to renew America's dedication to
    bring terrorists to justice and our gratitude to those men and women of
    the U.S. Government serving abroad who take great risks in protecting
    America.
        Six years ago, our Nation was tested by terrorism. Terrorists
    continue to be an active threat to our Nation, but we are responding
    resolutely and forcefully. On this solemn anniversary, we rededicate
    ourselves to the fight against the enemies of humanity, offer our
    prayers and condolences to the families of the Cole victims, and offer
    thanks to the men and women of our Navy who protect our country and
    promote peace and freedom around the world.