MEDIA, PA – Congressman Joe Sestak (PA-07) released the following statement to recognize those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and pay tribute to our military members and first responders who served our nation that day and in the fight against terrorism. He also offered remarks today at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia at an event to benefit the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service and Education Center, an organization which provides important assistance to Veterans. “Nine years ago today, our nation suffered a devastating attack that claimed nearly 3,000 lives, and in many ways shifted the foundations of our national security policy,” said Congressman Sestak, who was stationed at the Pentagon in September, 2001 and had walked out of the building not long before it was attacked. “The eleventh of September will never again pass by as just another day on the calendar – especially for those who have personal memories of this terrible tragedy.”
“But especially today, as we mourn those who were lost, I believe we must express our deepest appreciation for the first responders and other heroes who risked – and too often gave – their own lives to save others in the aftermath of this tragedy. We should extend this gratitude to the brave men and women who defend us in every corner of the globe, and show our thanks when they come home by ensuring they are treated with the honor they deserve.” “This day is a reminder to celebrate and cherish the freedoms that have always defined us as Americans, and honor the memory of our countrymen, by remaining true to the values that came under attack on that day. We will always act on and defend our ideals, as we cherish our nation, our diversity and our religious freedom for all.” Born and raised in Delaware County, former 3-star Admiral Joe Sestak served in the Navy for 31 years and now serves as the Representative from the 7th District of Pennsylvania. He led a series of operational commands at sea, including as Commander of an aircraft carrier battle group of 30 U.S. and allied ships with over 15,000 sailors and 100 aircraft that conducted operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. After 9/11, the Congressman was the first Director of “Deep Blue,” the Navy’s anti-terrorism unit that established strategic and operations policies for the “Global War on Terrorism.” He served as President Clinton’s Director for Defense Policy at the National Security Council in the White House, and holds a Ph.D. in Political Economy and Government from Harvard University.  According to the office of the House Historian, the Congressman is the highest-ranking former military officer ever elected to the U.S. Congress.