The multiple attacks against the United States by Al Qaeda terrorists will be remembered today in ceremonies in New York and other American cities to honour those who died in the tragedy exactly ten years ago. The attacks were a defining moment in recent history. They were seen by many as a direct challenge to western values and way of life. The whole world rallied behind the United States after 9/11, and later many countries joined it into a global war on terror which saw America and its allies invading Afghanistan, and many anti Al Qaeda operations throughout the world.
Despite the controversies that subsequently developed over the war on terror and the practises used by the US in pursuing suspected terrorist, the international community remains united in its condemnation of the vile acts which killed thousands of innocent civilians on 11 September 2001.
President Barak Obama, in his weekly address from the White House, spoke about the struggle with Al Qaeda and said that America was stronger than before. The American leader said:
"A decade after 9/11, it’s clear for all the world to see—the terrorists who attacked us that September morning are no match for the character of our people, the resilience of our nation, or the endurance of our values".
The President and the First Lady yesterday visited the Arlington Military cemetry where servicemen who died in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are buried (picture).
In his speech earlier, the President urged Americans to remain true to their values. "We are stronger and safer when we stay true to the values, freedoms and diversity that make us unique among nations" said the President.
source: commonspace.eu
photo: Official White House photo by Pete Souza
