By Steve Neavling
On the 22nd anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on Monday, Attorney General Merrick Garland recalled the heroism of law enforcement and public safety officers that day and pledged to remain committed to protecting Americans.
“We remember those we lost on September 11, 2001, and those who have died of 9/11-related illnesses since then,” Garland said in Washington D.C. “We remember the law enforcement and public safety officers who demonstrated enormous courage that day and the following days. And we hold close in our hearts all those who continue to mourn the loved ones who were taken from them.”
Garland said terrorism continues to be one of the Justice Department’s top priorities.
“As we remember the horrors inflicted on our country 22 years ago and those we have lost, let us also rededicate ourselves to our highest priority: protecting the American people, and doing so in a manner that is consistent with our values and with the rule of law,” Garland said. “We know we must remain vigilant in the face of terrorism. “And we must remain steadfast in our commitment to the principles for which the Justice Department must always stand: upholding the rule of law, keeping our country safe, and protecting civil rights.”
Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco also spoke and said that extremism continues to “evolve.”
“Twenty two years ago, we lost almost 3,000 of our fellow Americans in what remains the deadliest terrorist attack in our nation’s history,” Monaco said. “In the years since, the men and women of the Justice Department have worked tirelessly to prevent terrorist attacks before they happen and hold accountable those who engage in violent extremism. The threats our country faces continue to evolve but our commitment to protecting the American people will never waver.”
