September 11 Remembrance Ceremony at McChord Air Force Base (As Written)

September 11, 2006

Thank you General Crabtree for inviting us here and for your more than 30 years of service to our country.

We gather today to remember our fellow Americans who lost their lives on September 11.

We still look for solace and meaning from that fateful day�s events.

Five years ago today, people all across America awoke and began their normal routine.

Like many of you, I remember September 11, 2001 like it was yesterday.

I first heard the news from my daughter, who was in Washington DC working as an intern at the time.

Like most you, I didn�t know what to think.

Then after the second plane hit the World Trade Center, I realized the worst scenario was the most plausible: America was under attack.

September 11 is a shared experience none of us wish we had to share, but one we continue to share with each other.

And we honor the brave men and women that went far, far beyond the call of duty.

Many did not return.

The Bible states: �Greater love hath no man than this: than to lay down his life for his friends.�

We are here today, so we may never forget their love, their bravery.

On September 11 we faced acts of terrorism unlike anything we had ever faced before.

Here in Washington, we know we have potential terrorist targets. We must stay vigilant.

Perhaps the greatest asset we have to confront a terrorist attack or a natural disaster is the people of Washington.

We are strong, compassionate and generous. And when we hear a call for help, we answer it.

The nearly 2,300 Reservists of the 446th Airlift Wing, and all of Team McChord, have answered that call.

I salute the strength of your character, and your willingness to serve your country.

For all you do for us, I want you to know: We thank you.

I am humbled by the sacrifices made day in and day out by all of our troops, firefighters, police officers, and their families, your families. Your example has shown us that we must also do our part.

As you do your jobs, know you have the deepest appreciation from myself and our entire state.

Thank you. God bless you, God bless our great state and God bless our country.

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