World News

America Under Attack - President Bush Responds

Written by Joshua Smith - 13th September, 2001

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Just hours after the downing of the four hijacked passenger jets, President Bush has made an appearance to comfort the people of his nation and to highlight that action is underway not only to heal the wounds caused by the bloody offensive that rocked the foundations of America's celebrated liberty, but to reassure his people that those responsibe for this cowardly act will be brought to justice swiftly and resolutely.

The following address was made upon Mr Bush's arrival at the Barksdale Air Force Base, where he was safeguarded while his home in Washington was evacuated and secured out of fear that more attacks may be readied. Fortunately, that does not seem to have been the case as yet.

The full transcript of his initial address follows:

THE PRESIDENT: I want to reassure the American people that the full resources of the federal government are working to assist local authorities to save lives and to help the victims of these attacks. Make no mistake: The United States will hunt down and punish those responsible for these cowardly acts.

I've been in regular contact with the Vice President, the Secretary of Defense, the national security team and my Cabinet. We have taken all appropriate security precautions to protect the American people. Our military at home and around the world is on high alert status, and we have taken the necessary security precautions to continue the functions of your government.

We have been in touch with the leaders of Congress and with world leaders to assure them that we will do whatever is necessary to protect America and Americans.

I ask the American people to join me in saying a thanks for all the folks who have been fighting hard to rescue our fellow citizens and to join me in saying a prayer for the victims and their families.

The resolve of our great nation is being tested. But make no mistake: We will show the world that we will pass this test. God bless.

Mr Bush is expected to make a more formal address once the initial shock of the incident has subsided somewhat, and once more information as to the cause and source of this incredible wave of attacks has been gathered.