“Today, we can turn the page in a very important chapter of the country’s history.  The news of the death of Osama bin Laden, the mass murderer at the head of the world’s most infamous terrorist organization, brings relief to the United States and her allies in the war on terror. The brave men and women of our armed forces who successfully achieved their mission have sent a strong message to al-Qaeda, its affiliates, and the many others who carry out such cowardly attacks, that justice, no matter how long and difficult the pursuit, will prevail. 

Our thoughts and prayers are not only with the victims of 9-11 and their families today, but also with those soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the years after the attacks to hunt down the world’s most wanted terrorist. 

We should thank the Bush Administration for its clarity of purpose in the aftermath of 9-11.  Their relentless execution of the war on terror helped find, capture, and eliminate scores of individuals posing a threat to freedom and liberty around the world.  The Obama Administration, too, deserves credit for its role in the continuation of national security policies that make our country safer.  

Today, Americans should feel satisfied that bin Laden has been brought to justice, but also be mindful that the death of one man does not eliminate the global terrorist threat.  Particularly now, as the world reacts to the news, we must remain vigilant and resilient.  

Again, I commend the men and women who carried out their mission.  They have done the United States, her allies, and those around the world who believe in freedom, liberty and justice a great service.”