"This week will mark the fifth anniversary of September 11, 2001. None of us will ever forget where we were that day or how our nation united in grief in the days and weeks following that great tragedy.

"In the weeks following 9/11, we all demonstrated the best of America. Thousands volunteered to help with the rescue and recovery efforts. Scores more donated money, gave blood and took time to help people affected by the attacks. Millions prayed for the families who lost loved ones. Thousands enlisted in the military to serve our nation in the War on Terror. It was a remarkable time; people from all walks of life stood together with a renewed sense of purpose and compassion. Millions of Americans took the time and effort to help people they would never meet. It was because of these acts that our nation's wounds began to heal.

"On this anniversary of September 11, 2001, let's not only remember those we lost, but also remember how we came together to help get America through perhaps the most difficult days in its history. Let's remember the firefighters and police officers who ascended the stairs of the burning World Trade Center to save others. Let's remember the rescue workers who spent days digging through the ruins of Lower Manhattan in hopes of finding survivors. Let's remember the heroism of the brave men and women who have put their country before themselves in Afghanistan and Iraq. And let's remember all those who gave a little of themselves after 9/11 to help some of their fellow Americans persevere through an unimaginable time.

"On September 11, 2001, our hearts were broken but our spirit grew stronger. On September 11, 2006, let us renew our commitment to making America a better place. Thank you, and may God bless America."