Pelosi Remarks at Memorial Dedication for September 11 in Rome;

Contact: Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Rome - Prior to the annual G8 Heads of Parliament meeting being held this year in Rome, Italy, Speaker Nancy Pelosi joined the Mayor of Rome today in dedicating a memorial commemorating the tragedy of September 11. The monument is the vision of the Mayor, composed of two ancient Roman columns symbolizing the Twin Towers. Below are the Speaker's remarks as prepared for delivery:

“On September 11, 2001, the whole world stood still.

“Though the attacks occurred on American soil, they were global in scope. They were an assault on our shared values, our way of life, and the freedoms we hold most dear.

“Italy lost ten of its sons and daughters. For this and because of our deep friendship, Italy proclaimed their unity with the people of the United States; in declaring, 'We are all Americans.'

“And today, I am honored to stand with the Citizens of Rome as they declare, 'we will never forget.'

“It is befitting that the words of the American poet George Santayana are inscribed on this plaque: 'Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.' We will never forget.

“It is appropriate that this plaque is being unveiled today by a fireman and a police officer. Their participation reflects the sacrifices made by first responders on 9/11 and everyday.

“On this magnificent site that has endured through the ages rises a new monument commemorating the tragedy of 9/11 built with ancient Roman marble to last for the ages.

“These twin pillars not only remind us of the Twin Towers, but also of those who lost their lives at the Pentagon, as well as those who perished on Flight 93, in whose memory we have just dedicated a permanent plaque in the U.S. Capitol. Because of the Mayor's vision, this monument will serve as a reminder, not only of the 9/11 tragedy, but also that our two nations, our two people, are bound together by common commitment to peace.

“On behalf of the people of America, I thank you for your unwavering and lasting friendship.

“May God bless the memories of all of the victims and heroes of 9/11. May God shed His grace on all of us. Viva Italia. Viva America.â€