State's U.S. senators respond

Missouri's U.S. senators voiced shock and sadness over Tuesday's terrorist attacks and predicted the government would punish those responsible for the devastation.

U.S. Sen. Christopher Bond, R-Mo., said, "September 11, 2001, will forever be burned into American history as an unprecedented day of horror."

But he said the United States can't let such terrorism deliver a crippling psychological blow. "Despite the horror we feel, we must remain strong," said Bond.

"I know the president of the United States. I am confident that he will throw the full weight of the U.S. government behind the task of identifying and punishing those responsible for the attacks," said Bond.

U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan, D-Mo., said, "I am deeply saddened by the senseless loss of innocent men, women and children by such an evil and calculated act of destruction."

Said Carnahan, " Let there be no doubt, we will call to account any who dare to threaten our life and liberty. As in times past, let us put aside our differences and unite to defend our homeland.