I was honored to join the President and First Lady, Secretary Hegseth, and General Caine this morning for the 25th Anniversary 9/11 Observance Ceremony at the Pentagon. Let us always remember: That those who thought the world could be ruled by hate and fear were wrong. Our country did not let that dark vision of humanity stand. That vigilance is still required to protect and secure us. That we are one people — drawn from different religious, ethnic and national origins, but forged into an extraordinary whole — we are American. That we are called to protect each other and to care for one another. That freedom is fragile and must be defended and won by each generation. That we are a fortunate people who enjoy the blessings of liberty and must never take them for granted. The Apostle Paul tells us in Romans V that struggle is a privilege — that out of it comes perseverance and hope. September 11 tested us, but it did not break us. As we meet the many challenges ahead, may the memory of our response to that searing experience bring hope for our future as a country and as a people.