From a speech given by Former Becker County Administrator, Tom Mortenson (COL ret), one of the twenty Strategic War Planners who wrote the American military response plan to the events of 9-11 at a memorial meeting held in Tampa today, September 11, 2023.
"22 years have passed since al-Qaeda terrorists attacked our Nation. Using four commercial airplanes (American Airlines Flight 11, United Airlines Flight 175, American Airlines Flight 77, and United Airlines Flight 93) the terrorists unleashed their attack resulting in the deadliest terrorist attack. Their actions resulted in the destruction of the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers, damaged the Pentagon, and the crash of Flight 93" Mortenson said.
Mortenson added, "As we gather in memorials and volunteer work on what is designated Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance, we need to remember not only those who died and were wounded that day, but also their loved ones who suffer to this day."
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"For my wife and me, this day is also a personal moment as we think about our son who is a fire-fighter and think of the many first-responders who gave their lives that day," Mortenson said.
"In the same way, it is necessary to consider and remember the over 7,000+ Americans who died in the Global War on Terrorism. We need to see that these warriors are not forgotten in our Veteran Memorials and Parks."
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"Today, is a day to remember and rededicate each of us to the core values of our Nation – that freedom will endure, and that our Nation stands as one united people who stand together in the face of terrorism" Mortenson said in his remarks.
During his visit to the World Trade Center site, President George W. Bush stated, 'Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America.' These acts shattered steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve.”
In conclusion, Mortenson stated: "Those who oppose our Nation need to understand the strength of American resolve - we are Americans!"