speeches

Ambassador Timken
September 11 Memorial Ceremony

Berlin
September 11, 2005

Thank you, Pastor Kulawik and Dr. Kuhla, for holding this special memorial service at the Memorial Church.

Rabbi Rozwaski, Frau Mohagheghi, Brother Othmar, and all those gathered here, thank you for your participation.

Today America is recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, one of the worst natural disasters in the history of the United States. We honor the memory of those who lost their lives.

At the same time, as America marks another year since September 11, 2001, we renew our resolve never to let that day pass from memory. We recall the good lives that ended too soon, the courage of rescuers who saw death and did not flee, and the families left behind to carry a burden of sorrow with the courage and strength they have shown. We remember the heroism of those who sacrificed for others. In the face of danger, brave men and women risked and sacrificed all so that others would live. We remember today the heroes who resolved to take care of their neighbors, and we see that heroism again in the thousands of people working to aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

In the aftermath of the hurricane, one of our great cities has been flooded and a vast coastline of towns and communities has been destroyed. The people of the Gulf Coast have lost homes, communities, and loved ones. In answer to their need, thousands of men and women have sacrificed to help their neighbors.

We have received offers of support from around the world. We are grateful for the condolences and the generous assistance from the people and the government of Germany. This is an example of the humanity and compassion that unites all of us.

The tasks before us are enormous, but as we saw four years ago, so is our resolve. The actions of Americans and concerned citizens around the world demonstrate the greatest compassion one person may show to another: to love your neighbor as yourself. Their many selfless deeds reflect the promise of the Scripture: "For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in."