Remembering September 11th on the 25th Anniversary

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is commemorating the 25^th anniversary of September 11, 2001, in memory of the lost lives and heroic stories that are now part of our national history.

"Twenty-five years have passed since the terrible attacks of September 11th that changed much about our country and the world," said Aumua Amata. "My own view was the sight of dark smoke rising high into the sky from the Pentagon, first from where I was that morning at the Capitol, then for hours from my car as I tried to get through the chaos of traffic, driving close by the Pentagon, and finally still seeing endless smoke many hours later.

"On this 25^th anniversary, we remember that thousands of families feel the deeply personal loss of loved ones. We honor the great numbers of firefighters, police and responders who rescued others, and headed up the towers and toward the danger, many at the sacrifice of their own precious lives. We think of the bravery of those aboard Flight 93, where there's now a somber Memorial site in Pennsylvania. The site of the World Trade Center towers is now a powerful National Museum in New York while across the street the One World Trade Center stands gleaming in the sun, built even higher in a testament to the American spirit.

"Today, a special thank you to all our law enforcement, firefighters, and first responders - current and retired - for your service. We depend on you in times of crisis, and support the ongoing priority of the best possible equipment and training. Thank you also to our many Toa o Samoa, and all our U.S. Service Members and Veterans nationwide.

"We also remember that 25 years ago we experienced a strong and special unity of spirit, a turn toward faith, and patriotic responsibility. For a time, partisanship, bickering and gridlock ceased. May we continue to find togetherness as a country and courage to uphold the cause of freedom. Most of all, may we be again reminded to look to God for hope and wisdom. May God bless American Samoa and the United States."

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