Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) released the following statement reflecting on the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks that took place in New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania:

“This year marks the twentieth anniversary of a day that every American will never forget. 2,977 people were tragically killed by terrorists who hate our freedoms and our way of life. More than 6,000 others were injured in the attacks. Hundreds of men and women – some were first responders on duty, some were first responders not on call that day, and some were Americans who just wanted to help – put aside their fears and ran into danger in hopes to save anyone they could. As they raced in, they had to know they might not make it out. But instead of turning back, they continued to push forward even as the buildings began to collapse. We will never forget their sacrifice.

“If you were alive on September 11, 2001, you remember where you were when you learned of the attacks. I remember hearing the news on the radio as I drove down to Columbus for session in the Ohio General Assembly. The report said an aircraft had hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center. At first, they said it was small commuter plane. But then, the reports came in that it had been a commercial airliner.

“The world watched in horror as the second airplane hit the South Tower, then shortly after, a third hit the Pentagon. It was clear these incidents were not accidents and that our nation was under attack. We were then told about the fourth jet that crashed in Pennsylvania and the heroism that took place on board. The passengers forced their way into the cockpit to stop their flight from killing other Americans. They will always be remembered for their bravery.

“A lot can happen in twenty years, and in many ways, the world has changed over the past two decades. But one thing has not changed, and that is the love Americans feel for our country and their fellow citizens. Let’s take time to remember every American who perished on 9/11 or because of injuries sustained on that day. Thank you to the men and women in our Armed Forces who fought in the War on Terror for their valiant efforts to keep our people safe and prevent any further attacks. Marcia and I continue to pray for those who mourn the loss of their friends and families. Our nation must stay vigilant in our efforts to prevent another terrorist attack on our soil. We will never forget.”

Original source can be found here.