Mayor Mark Begich remarks
September 11 Parkstrip Remembrance
8:46 a.m.;  Sept. 11, 2003;  Anchorage  ParkStrip Flag Pole

Thank you, Matt Valley, for your introduction and for hosting this event.

At this hour two years ago, a cowardly deed was inflicted upon our country. Just as an earlier generation remember precisely what they were doing when the life of a young president was abruptly taken, today each of us vividly remember the shocking sight of passenger jets smashing into the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon.

For me, an early morning call from my sister directed me to the television. And like millions of Americans, I could not turn away from the horror that played over and over again.

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, were designed to cripple and demoralize the greatest nation on earth. In fact, they had the opposite effect. Two years later, America is stronger than ever. As we gather here and across the nation to remember the loss and suffering while embracing family and friends, we are more committed than ever to protecting our freedoms.

We are reminded that bravery and self-sacrifice have always been cornerstones of our nation’s greatness. Once again, we demonstrate our patriotism with pride and gratitude.

After September 11^th, Alaskans answered the call to citizenship quickly, generously and compassionately. We sent our prayers, our money, and our medical expertise to assist the victims.

Our public safety professionals – especially police officers and fire fighters - and the men and women of our armed forces, rose to the highest states of readiness to protect our home front. Thanks to them and to my predecessor, today we have a safer, more secure community here in Anchorage.

We will never forget the thousands who perished on that day of infamy two years ago. In honor of their sacrifice, we are resolved to become better people in our own lives and build a greater community and nation.

May God continue to bless America.