    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 37 (Monday, September 17, 2001)]
    [Page 1302]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Remarks Following a Meeting With the National Security Team

    September 12, 2001

        I have just completed a meeting with our national security team, and
    we have received the latest intelligence updates.
        The deliberate and deadly attacks which were carried out yesterday
    against our country were more than acts of terror. They were acts of
    war. This will require our country to unite in steadfast determination
    and resolve. Freedom and democracy are under attack.
        The American people need to know we're facing a different enemy than
    we have ever faced. This enemy hides in shadows and has no regard for
    human life. This is an enemy who preys on innocent and unsuspecting
    people, then runs for cover. But it won't be able to run for cover
    forever. This is an enemy that tries to hide, but it won't be able to
    hide forever. This is an enemy that thinks its harbors are safe, but
    they won't be safe forever.
        This enemy attacked not just our people but all freedom-loving
    people everywhere in the world. The United States of America will use
    all our resources to conquer this enemy. We will rally the world. We
    will be patient; we will be focused; and we will be steadfast in our
    determination.
        This battle will take time and resolve. But make no mistake about
    it: We will win.
        The Federal Government and all our agencies are conducting business,
    but it is not business as usual. We are operating on heightened security
    alert. America is going forward, and as we do so, we must remain keenly
    aware of the threats to our country. Those in authority should take
    appropriate precautions to protect our citizens.
        But we will not allow this enemy to win the war by changing our way
    of life or restricting our freedoms. This morning I am sending to
    Congress a request for emergency funding authority so that we are
    prepared to spend whatever it takes to rescue victims, to help the
    citizens of New York City and Washington, DC, respond to this tragedy,
    and to protect our national security.
        I want to thank the Members of Congress for their unity and support.
    America is united. The freedom-loving nations of the world stand by our
    side. This will be a monumental struggle of good versus evil, but good
    will prevail.
        Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 10:53 a.m. in the Cabinet Room at the White
    House.