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U.S. will always remember 9/11 victims – Obama

President Obama has said that the victims of September 11 will always be remembered “no matter how many years pass.” He stated this on Tuesday … Continue reading U.S. will always remember 9/11 victims – Obama


President Obama has said that the victims of September 11 will always be remembered “no matter how many years pass.”

He stated this on Tuesday during one of the three main ceremonies marking the 11th anniversary of the attacks in which nearly 3,000 people were killed by airliners hijacked by Islamist militants.

Obama, speaking at the Pentagon where 184 people were killed, told victims’ families that the country shares theirgrief.

“Eleven times we have paused in remembrance and reflection, in unity and in purpose,” Obama said. “This is never an easy day, but it is especially difficult for all of you, the families of nearly 3,000 innocents who lost their lives.

“But no matter how many years pass, no matter how many times we come together on this hallowed ground, know this: That you will never be alone, your loved ones will never be forgotten. They will endure in the hearts of our nation because through their sacrifice they helped us make the America we are today, an America that has emerged even stronger.”

Obama said America’s fight is not with Islam but with al Qaeda, the group responsible for the attacks, and its allies.

It is a line he has used several times since taking office promising to mend ties with the Muslim world.

“I’ve always said our fight is with al Qaeda and its affiliates, not with Islam or any other religion,” he said. “This country was built as a beacon of freedom and tolerance.”

Before the Pentagon ceremony, Obama and first lady Michelle Obama observed a moment of silence on the South Lawn of the White House. Afterward they stopped at Arlington National Cemetery, where the two paid their respects at the graves of military service members killed in Iraq and Afghanistan.