Obama: Nation Must ‘Carry On’ Work of Fallen Heroes

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2012 – As the loss of four Americans serving at a diplomatic post in Benghazi, Libya, resonates globally, President Barack Obama in his weekly address today thanked the fallen for their service and pledged that their killers will not escape justice.

Killed in the Sept. 11 attacks on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi were former Navy SEALS Glen A. Doherty and Tyrone S. Woods, former Air Force member Sean Smith, and U.S. Ambassador to Libya J. Christopher Stevens.

“As we mourn their loss, we must also send a clear and resolute message to the world: those who attack our people will find no escape from justice,” Obama said. “We will not waver in their pursuit. And we will never allow anyone to shake the resolve of the United States of America.”

Obama said the United States has been in contact with governments around the globe to strengthen cooperation and emphasize the responsibility of every nation to help protect Americans serving abroad.

“We must reaffirm that we will carry on the work of our fallen heroes,” he said. “These four Americans represented the very best of our country.”

The president personally spoke with family members of the fallen, who he thanked for making the ultimate sacrifice.

“They died as they lived their lives,” the president said of the victims, “defending their fellow Americans, and advancing the values that all of us hold dear.”

Obama explained that the Benghazi attack occurred during a time of turmoil and protest in many different countries, but added that there is “never any justification for violence.”

“There is no religion that condones the targeting of innocent men and women,” he said. “There is no excuse for attacks on our Embassies and Consulates. And so long as I am Commander-in-Chief, the United States will never tolerate efforts to harm our fellow Americans.”

Obama reminded Americans that for every angry mob, there are “millions who yearn for the freedom … dignity … [and] hope that our flag represents.”

The president also expressed his confidence in America’s unshakeable spirit and leadership.

“That is the legacy of the four Americans we lost; men who will live on in the hearts of those they loved, and the strength of the country they served,” Obama said.