That other jihadists hold to the same beliefs and goals as al-Qaeda, and that innumerable Muslims around the world consider Islam to be at war with the United States — these things Barack Obama did not address. “Remarks of President Barack Obama, Weekly Address, The White House,” from the White House website, September 8:
…On that clear September morning, as America watched the towers fall, and the Pentagon burn, and the wreckage smoldering in a Pennsylvania field, we were filled with questions. Where had the attacks come from, and how would America respond?
“Where had the attacks come from?” That question has still not been correctly or adequately answered in Washington.
…We took the fight to al Qaeda, decimated their leadership, and put them on a path to defeat. And thanks to the courage and skill of our intelligence personnel and armed forces, Osama bin Laden will never threaten America again.
Instead of pulling back from the world, we”ve strengthened our alliances while improving our security here at home. As Americans, we refuse to live in fear. Today, a new tower rises above the New York skyline. And our country is stronger, safer and more respected in the world.
Instead of turning on each other, we”ve resisted the temptation to give in to mistrust and suspicion. I have always said that America is at war with al Qaeda and its affiliates — and we will never be at war with Islam or any other religion. We are the United States of America. Our freedom and diversity make us unique, and they will always be central to who we are as a nation.
Instead of changing who we are, the attacks have brought out the best in the American people. More than 5 million members of the 9/11 Generation have worn America’s uniform over the past decade, and we”ve seen an outpouring of goodwill towards our military, veterans, and their families. Together, they”ve done everything we”ve asked of them. We”ve ended the war in Iraq and brought our troops home.
And Iraq is roiling with jihadist chaos.
We brought an end to the Taliban regime.
And yet the Taliban are stronger than ever in Afghanistan, control large parts of the country, and infiltrate the Afghan police and military at will.
We”ve trained Afghan Security Forces,
…who use us as a shooting gallery.
and forged a partnership with a new Afghan Government. And by the end 2014, the transition in Afghanistan will be complete and our war there will be over.
And then the Afghan jihad will begin in real earnest.
And finally, instead of turning inward with grief, we”ve honored the memory of those we lost by giving back to our communities, serving those in need, and reaffirming the values at the heart of who we are as a people. That’s why we mark September 11th as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.
A travesty to the families of the victims and an outrage to the nation. December 7 was never a National Day of Service and Remembrance. It was a grim reminder that freedom comes with a price, and must be defended against vicious and ruthless enemies. That September 11 is not the same thing, but a National Day of Service and Remembrance, is an indication of our national weakness and pusillanimity.