To:   ALAUX
Frm:  CHDIRAUX
Subj: MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY CHERTOFF: 9/11 FIVE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY -029/06

1.  FYI
 -----Original Message-----
From:   Secretary Department of Homeland Security
Sent:   Mon Sep 11 09:50:03 2006
To:   
Subject:        MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY CHERTOFF: 9/11 FIVE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

To: DHS Employees
From: Michael Chertoff /s/
Subject: 9/11 Five-Year Anniversary

Today marks the five-year anniversary of an unparalleled tragedy in our
Nation's history. On September 11, 2001, thousands of people-men, women, and
children of all backgrounds and faiths-perished in the attacks on the World
Trade Center and the Pentagon, and in a field in Pennsylvania. In the midst
of great tragedy, we saw tremendous bravery and sacrifice reflected in the
many first responders who gave their own lives to save others and in heroic
passengers on the hijacked flights.

9/11 remains a defining moment for many of us and for our Nation. Out of the
tragic events of that day grew our resolve to protect our homeland against
further terrorist attacks.

Since 9/11, fighting the war on terrorism and advancing freedom has become
the great calling of our generation. For more than three years, the
employees of the Department of Homeland Security have answered this call
with steadfast determination and commitment. We have learned many lessons in
this short amount of time and have taken many actions to strengthen our
security and protect U.S. citizens. Our goal is to prevent attacks, reduce
our vulnerabilities, and enhance our ability to respond.

The recent terrorist plot to destroy multiple commercial airliners over the
Atlantic Ocean reminds us of the ongoing terrorist threat and the ruthless
nature of our enemy. The terrorists have not stopped plotting against us,
and we must not let our guard down. We will continue to adapt and strengthen
the security layers we have put in place. We will not yield in these vital
efforts.

On this day, the fifth anniversary of 9/11, we remember those who perished
in those terrible incidents. We go forward in their memory, determined never
to relent in serving American citizens by securing our homeland.

I sincerely appreciate your continued dedication, and I value your support
as together we accomplish our critical mission.


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