September 11th, 2001 is a day we will never forget. As a nation, we remember and honor those whose lives were ended prematurely when jetliners struck the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, and we remember and mourn those who died aboard Flight 93 near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Still, we must remember that the threat to our national security remains. While we have regained a sense of safety and normalcy in our lives, enemies of the United States continue to exist who intend to strike our country and our way of life again. The terrorists and other enemies of peace also threaten our partners in Africa. Our sustained security engagement assists our partners in addressing those challenges by helping them build their own security capacity. In doing so, we contribute to our Nation’s global effort to deny sanctuary to terrorists and prevent them from ever again striking our homeland. We have been successful thus far because of our vigilance and commitment.

September 11th has been named “Patriot Day,” celebrating all men and women who devote themselves in service to our Nation. To you, the patriots of U.S. Africa Command, thank you for your dedication and service. Let us all renew our commitment to protecting our U.S. homeland and helping our partners protect theirs.