President Obama spoke directly to the American people tonight, confirming to the world the death of the man behind the September 11 attacks, Osama Bin Laden. After years of tireless work from the United States' military and U.S. intelligence agencies, the President said over a week ago he had enough intelligence to successfully follow through with an operation to finally kill Bin Laden. The operation was carried out, Bin Laden was killed and the United States now has custody of his body.
"Justice has been done."
"Today's achievement is a testament to the greatness of our country."
"We have never forgotten your loss or wavering our commitment of prevent another attack on our shores."
The President confirmed the operation to kill Bin Laden was carried out by a "small team of Americans" meaning a small group of special operation forces were sent into a mansion where Bin Laden was hiding in near Islamabad, Pakistan.
"After fire fight, they killed Osama Bin Laden and they took custody of his body."
Obama made clear the United States is not at war with Islam and stressed that the United States is still heavily involved in the War on Terror despite the death of Bin Laden, saying President Bush felt the same way. Obama also acknowledged the priceless sacrifices military families have made through this fight.
The President ended his statement by reciting the end of the Pledge of Allegiance.
"One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
President Bush also made a statement about the death of Bin Laden:
“Earlier this evening, President Obama called to inform me that American forces killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of the al Qaeda network that attacked America on September 11, 2001. I congratulated him and the men and women of our military and intelligence communities who devoted their lives to this mission. They have our everlasting gratitude. This momentous achievement marks a victory for America, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001. The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done.”
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Flashback September 21, 2001:
"We will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail."
"I can hear you, the rest of the world hears you and the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon."
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