Gohmert Remembers 9/11

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Louie Gohmert (TX-01) released the following statement in order to remember the fallen and pay tribute to the survivors and first responders on the 10th Anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks:

“It has been said by Thomas Jefferson, ‘The cement of this union is the heart-blood of every American.’ The morning of September 11, 2001, America’s heart beat was fortified through tragedy and pulsed in one patriotic accord.

“Throughout most of the country, September 11th was a bright, clear and warm day. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary. However, at 9:03 AM when the second of four hijacked planes crashed in to the World Trade Center’s South Tower, every heart was irreparably changed forever in America.

“Dozens of questions flooded the minds of our countrymen and women. Unfortunately, no one could specifically address the devastation, fear, doubt and sheer horror felt by the majority of Americans. Hearts – dismayed, anxious and angry – were racing. Though there were very small pockets of people in America and some countries abroad cheering when those towers came down, all true Americans were devastated.

“Within minutes of the first plane hitting the North Tower, dozens of police, firefighters and rescue personnel rushed up the endless stairwells with a strict mission in mind – to provide assistance to the victims and contain the violent fire. When the second plane smashed into the South Tower, immediately rescue personnel headed up the stairs to give aid. Emotions saddled with fear and uncertainty, these ordinary Americans, answered the call of bravery, and sacrificed their lives by offering assistance to their fellow Americans.

“Elmer Davis’ words echoed as truth that day, ‘This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.’

“September 11th was the single worst terrorist attack any country has suffered in modern times. Nearly 3,000 innocent people were cold heartedly murdered on our soil. Americans lost husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, children, and friends.

“The heroic Americans who responded with courage and strength will never be forgotten. We remember those who lost their lives on 9/11 and honor those who ran into the burning buildings that catastrophic day. These brave men and women make up the true heart of America. When people were evacuating the World Trade Center and Pentagon – running down stairwells and corridors – these patriots stationed themselves in the path of disaster; they saved the lives of their countrymen and comforted countless Americans in their last moments on earth.

“On that horrific day, two towers came crashing down – all that was left was a foundation. It is the foundation of faith, hope and love that comprises the bedrock of America. Ironically, following the attacks, during the operation to clear Ground Zero and when the massive search to find survivors was underway, a 20-foot cross of steel beams was uncovered among the rubble. In the midst of chaos and calamity, God was present. To quote Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

“America’s patriotism is not etched in the colors of the flag, it’s not found in the concrete monuments or historic government buildings. True American patriotism can only be viewed in the valiant faces of its people. In the days, weeks, months, and years that follow, I pray, even in the face of scoffers, we will always honor these brave individuals. I pray that we never forget the sacrifice of those who ran into the burning buildings that day. I pray that we never replace these men and women who demonstrated courage with those who merely speak of it.

“May God Continue to Bless America.”