We must remain vigilant in detecting and preventing terrorist threats that may seek to penetrate the homeland from the land, sea or air. Their message to the President was simple: “thank you.” Bin Laden’s death brought them some degree of closure, but our work must continue.Īnd, given how the terrorist threat to this country is evolving, I welcome the opportunity to continue that work as the leader of the Department of Homeland Security. My second best day was May 5, 2011, the day I returned to Manhattan, with the President, to meet with the families of the victims of 9/11.
My best day as a lawyer and public servant was May 1, 2011, the day our special forces got bin Laden. Through the efforts of both the Bush and Obama Administrations, we have put al Qaeda’s core leadership on a path to strategic defeat. Therefore, out of the events of that day, which happens to be my birthday, my personal commitment to the mission of homeland security was also born.Īs the senior lawyer for the Department of Defense for four years from 2009 through 2012, I was at the center of much of this government’s counterterrorism efforts during that period.
I am a New Yorker who was present in Manhattan on 9/11. In this, my first opportunity to testify before this Committee, I would like to spell out my vision for the Department I am privileged to lead.Īs each of you is aware, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was born out of the tragic events of 9/11. I look forward to working with this Committee to meet the critical mission of homeland security.
I have appreciated your kind words, encouragement, and support in the days leading up to today’s hearing. Chairman, Ranking Member Thompson, and Members of this Committee, thank you for the opportunity to be here.
0 kommentar(er)
