Cleaver: We must never forget 9-11

(From Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, D-Mo)

Today marks the tenth anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. We have worked hard over the past decade to make America stronger, safer, and more secure, while also preserving the freedoms that so many have given so much to defend. It was this need that prompted me to request and serve on the Committee on Homeland Security. I am proud of the hard work done by both Republicans and Democrats in these efforts.

Each year, like you, I think about the lives that were cut short, the families that are not whole and the heroic deeds of a brave few who saved so many. This morning, the city of Sugar Creek received a piece of a steel beam that once was part of the World Trade Center. While we need no reminder of that day, this piece of our history will be a testament to not only our sadness and suffering, but also the strength and service that embodies our nation.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of all those whose lives were cut short, ten years ago today.

Once again — we remember...

At 8:46 a.m., Tower One of the World Trade Center was struck by American Airlines flight 11.

Seventeen minutes later, at 9:03 a.m., Tower Two was struck by United Airlines Flight 175.

2,974 people died on that morning and another 24 remain missing and are presumed dead as a result of the attack.

World Trade Center

17,400 civilians were in the World Trade Center complex at the time of the attack.

1,434 people were killed in World Trade Center Tower One.

92 passengers on American Airlines Flight 11 were killed when it crashed into Tower One.

599 employees were killed in World Trade Center Tower Two.

65 passengers were killed on United Airlines Flight 175 when it crashed into Tower Two.

343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 police officers and 37 Port Authority police officers were killed coming to the aid of those trapped in the Twin Towers.

The Pentagon

At 9:43 a.m., American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon, sending up a huge plume of smoke.

125 people were killed in the Pentagon.

59 passengers on American Airlines Flight 77 were killed when it crashed into the Pentagon.

Somerset County

At 10:10 a.m., United Airlines Flight 93 crashes.

45 passengers on United Airlines Flight 93 died while saving the U.S. Capitol or White House when they intentionally downed their plane in a field near rural Shanksville in southwest Pennsylvania.

Left behind...

Citizens of 115 nations and of all faiths were killed in the attacks.

1,609 people lost a spouse or partner in the attacks.

3,051 children lost a parent.

1,300 children were made orphans.

20 percent of our nation, one-in-five Americans, knew someone hurt or killed on that horrible morning.

Let us never forget.

God bless each of them,