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Remember New Jerseyans lost in the War on Terrorism

New Jersey’s top state government officials, Gov. Chris Christie, Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver late Sunday and early Monday offered praise for the national government and the strike team that brought about the death of Osama bin Laden and remembered the New Jerseyans who lost their lives on Sept. 11 and the long list of servicemen and women from the state who were killed or wounded in the War on Terrorism.

Gov. Christie: "I want to commend President Obama's administration for its commitment and dedication to finally bringing Osama bin Laden to justice. As the former U.S. Attorney and now governor of New Jersey, I speak for all the families of this state who have courageously endured the unspeakable and devastating consequences of terrorism. There is hardly a life that has gone untouched in New Jersey by the horrifying assault on American soil that took place on September 11th and today, after years of waiting, justice has finally been delivered. While our fight against terrorism continues, Osama bin Laden's reign of terror has come to an end, sending a clear signal that even in the face of immeasurable horror, democracy and freedom continue to prevail."

Senate President Sweeney: "Tonight the President delivered news that Americans had waited a decade to hear: Osama bin Laden is dead. For the families of the nearly 3,000 victims of 9/11 and the thousands of servicemen and women who have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan over the past eight years, this news will not replace what Osama bin Laden had taken away. But hopefully the fact that the person ultimately responsible for so much grief and suffering had finally been found will bring some sense of relief that justice has been served. No matter how momentous, this news will not end the reality that we still live in a world where some would kill our neighbors simply for being Americans. We still must remain vigilant against terrorism."

Speaker Oliver: "Tonight's news is historic and breathtaking and a reminder of America's great perseverance. But it is also a reminder of the pain and loss many Americans felt on Sept. 11, 2001, including many here in New Jersey. We will never forget their pain, and we forever honor those lost and those who have fought so valiantly for our freedom in the years since. But as the president said, this fight against terrorism and evil is not over. We must continue our vigilance if we are to protect our liberty."

Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Cryan (D-Union) released the following statement Monday on the death of Osama bin Laden:

"America has always stood for what's right and just in this world, and while it took nearly a decade, Osama bin Laden has finally and rightly been brought to justice.

"I laud President Obama and his team and especially applaud the brave troops who have fought so tirelessly and bravely against the evil of terrorism, helping make this news possible. It's been a fight with much sacrifice and sorrow, and despite this accomplishment, it's one that continues, so our commitment must remain strong.

"But most of all, we must remember the families of those lost to terrorism and the ongoing war against it. Nothing can bring back those we've lost, and we'll always honor them, but hopefully this brings them some relief."

Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Jack Conners (D-Burlington/Camden) released the following statement on Monday:

“When I heard the news of the death of Osama bin Laden, my thoughts immediately turned to the families of those lost to terrorism – both those who perished on Sept, 11, 2001 and in other senseless attacks, and those in uniform lost fighting to eradicate this evil from our planet.

“We must remember to honor all these heroes each and every day by cherishing our freedom and liberty. And we must remember always to comfort the loved ones of those lost. While this news provides some closure, nothing can bring back the fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and neighbors we’ve lost.

“It’s been a long effort, and while this news re-emphasizes America’s dedication to the pursuit of justice, it’s an effort that must continue. Those who wish to spread evil will not waver, and nor should we waver in our commitment.

“I want to especially laud the Navy Seals who got this job done. They are among our finest and a stellar example of what it means to serve this great nation. Their actions were brave and valiant and a reminder that no matter the odds, American courage wins out.”

— TOM HESTER SR., NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM