WASHINGTON - Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security, participated in the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing, "Ten Years After 9/11: Are We Safer?" His statement, as prepared for delivery, follows:

"The 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks is a solemn occasion that gives us an opportunity to reflect on that tragic day and all of the challenges that our country has faced in the decade since. It also gives us an important opportunity to think about the future.

"I would like to thank Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Robert Mueller, and National Counterterrorism Center Director Matthew Olsen for being with us today to discuss what we have accomplished since Sept. 11 and the challenges that still remain. I would also like to thank them for their years of dedicated public service. Your efforts along with many others in our government, including the bravery of our armed forces around the world, are why we are a safer nation today. I would also like to recognize all of the first responders throughout the country who continue to work so hard for our security and well-being.

"A decade ago, our country suffered one of its worst tragedies, but we also saw the best of America on that day and throughout the recovery. We witnessed heroism, sacrifice, compassion, and above all – unity. Since Sept. 11, we have become very familiar with stories of the courageous acts performed by complete strangers coming together to help one another on that terrible day and during the difficult days that followed. It is that spirit of unity that we need now in order to face so many of the challenges that lie ahead, ranging from our national debt and the need to create jobs and grow our economy to our national security challenges.

"As the new security concerns surrounding the Sept. 11 anniversary showed us, our country still faces a very real threat of terrorism. While we have made important strides in improving our homeland security efforts and dismantling Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups, we know there is still much more work to be done. We must continue to strengthen our borders, improve our transportation security, enhance our cyber capabilities, and build the resiliency of our nation. We must also work smarter and more strategically with our limited resources.

"I firmly believe, though, that we cannot grow as a nation and adequately address our problems if we don't put aside our differences and work together. On Sept. 11, I said, 'Now is the time for us to unite as a people and a nation.' I believe that those words rang true back then and still ring true today.

"So as we pause to observe this anniversary and discuss the challenges that lie ahead, I am reminded of the need for our country to unite as a people and a nation. I can think of no better way to honor the memory of those we lost than to renew our commitment to once again find that spirit of unity that has always helped our country overcome great challenges and accomplish great things."

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