The deadliest domestic terrorist strike in the history of our country occurred on September 11, 2001, when terrorists killed close to 3,000 people and injured over 6,000 more. Today, we pay tribute to their memory and stand in solidarity with the surviving loved ones in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, Arlington, Virginia, and New York City.
The first responders who ran into danger to save lives will always be remembered by the men and women of the U.S. Department of State, along with the awful day, many lives lost, and them. We also mourn the members of our staff who perished on this day in Benghazi, Libya, in 2012. Their bravery and sacrifice continue to serve as an example for our country and this Department.
The remembrance of those lost on September 11 serves as a reminder of the need to keep up the fight against those who engage in acts of terrorism. Since then, we have worked together with allies from around the globe to put an end to the terror threat and guarantee that those responsible for terrorist acts are brought to justice. The United States will keep defending our nation, its citizens, and its allies.