Over the weekend, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle reflected on the tragedy that befell the country 20 years ago. On social media sites, lawmakers shared their thoughts, memories, and images from September 11, 2001. Florida Rep. Michael Waltz (R) released a statement, stating about the most recent political tension in Afghanistan that “while the soul of our nation was devastated by the terrible terrorist attacks that day, our spirit was emboldened.”
Waltz reflected on what September 11 meant to the country in 2001 and what it has subsequently been remembered for.
“We witnessed our first responders in New York City courageously run into the World Trade Center to rescue Americans not knowing what would unfold next,” adding that “we witnessed first responders, soldiers, civilians, and even the Secretary of Defense run back to a burning Pentagon to help rescue their colleagues.”
In response to the attack, Waltz noted that a large number of Americans enlisted in the military to protect the United States, and “our country lost over 6,000 U.S. service members and contractors who relentlessly fought to prevent another devastating attack on our homeland.”
With the recent political tension in Afghanistan culminating in the Taliban taking control of the country, cautioned that “Afghanistan is spiraling towards the same terrorist state it was twenty years ago - only the same terrorists who provided a safe haven to Osama Bin Laden and Al Qaeda are now better equipped and face far less resistance from U.S. allies on the ground.”
In response, Waltz argued that the United States “must remain vigilant as many of the perpetrators of the September 11th attacks are still alive and fully intend to attack the west again.”
In order to avoid another "Pulse Night Club, San Bernardino, or 9/11," Waltz asserted that the country "must continue to deliver justice to those who attacked our homeland and stay on offense to prevent future attacks."
