Sept. 11, 2001

Twelve years ago our nation felt the horror of terrorism. People who wished us harm took action on their hatred, hijacking planes and crashing into the twin towers in New York and the Pentagon in Virginia.

A fourth plane went down in rural Pennsylvania after passengers got word of the attack and bravely took over the flight -- actions that saved many more lives.

The horrific images of the day are seared in our memory. But so are images of hope and good will.

Think about the images of people helping people and strangers holding hands at church.

First responders working to rescue the living and to recover the dead.

Our president offering words of encouragement at ground zero.

Members of Congress standing together in unity.

These were the images that made you proud to be an American. These are the images we also should remember.

The country will pause today to remember those lost and the many families who are without loved ones. We also remember the four Americans killed one year ago today when the U.S. consulate in Benghazi was attacked.

We offer our prayers to Almighty God that the survivors and family members of those lost would experience an extra measure of comfort.

To the heroes who sacrificed so much 12 years ago and many who continue to serve our country to help preserve freedom, thank you and God bless.