US Embassy in Abu Dhabi marks September 11 anniversary

Abu Dhabi: September 11, 2001 raises deep emotions and memories for our citizens around the world.

Everyone who lived through that day will always remember what he/she was doing when the terrible news arrived said Douglas Greene, Charge d' Affairs, US embassy in Abu Dhabi.

He was speaking at a remembrance ceremony of September 11, 2001.

On this day, he said the US stood in shock and horror as it witnessed the death of thousands of innocent people at the hands of a few misguided individuals.

“After the shock, we realized that these few individuals, in a perverse misinterpretation of a noble, peaceful, and dignified faith, claimed they had the right to commit murder and violence in the name of religion. September 11 evokes for us great pain, sorrow and loss. Always first, we think of those who perished. But on this bright morning, we also turn our thoughts to their families, the parents, children, husbands, wives, and friends who face the future while still grieving for their loved ones.

“Here lies the crux of September 11th: from our moment of deepest grief flowed America's greatest strengths. Within a heartbeat after the shock, we rose with hope, with unity, with strength. We saw people of all races, all ethnic backgrounds, and all faiths, as brothers and sisters, reaching out to each other, helping each other, and sharing the pain,'' said Greene.

He thanked the UAE, for its solidarity, support and counsel.

“We know we are partners with you in building just such a future,'' said Greene.