ATAA on Sept 11: "Turkey and USA stand side by side in fighting terrorism"
ATAA members offer their condolences to the victims of Sept 11
The Turkish Times - On the occasion of the first Anniversary of September 11th, the ATAA Board has issued the following statement:

On the 1st Anniversary of September 11th
Washington, DC - September 11, 2002 - A year ago today, the face and destiny of our nation changed forever when a dastardly attack took the lives of thousands of innocent civilians in New York, Washington DC and Pennsylvania. Since that fateful day, much has changed in America and around the world.

As the ATAA Board, we ask that everybody take a moment to remember all those whose lives were so violently taken away from them, as well as their families who try to cope with their losses.

Yet out of the ashes and destruction, we saw the rise of a nation that is perhaps more united than ever. We see resolve in our leaders to do whatever is necessary to protect this nation and toeradicate the cancer of terrorism. We see a sense of renewed commitment in the international community to fight all forms of terrorism and to deny terrorists the shelter of any religion, ethnicity or country.

As Turkish Americans, we see the time-tested alliance between the United States and Turkey prove its strength once again, as the two nations stand side by side in fighting terrorism. We are proud to see that Turkey's commitment extends beyond words to deeds, as the country leads peacekeeping forces in Kabul and puts its own troops on the frontline. We salute the leaders of both nations, as well as the many unnamed heroes at home and abroad who work vigilantly to defend civilization, democracy and freedom against radicalism, tyranny and hate.

On behalf of all the members of the Assembly of Turkish American Associations, we would like to once again offer our condolences to all those who lost their loved ones on September 11th and wish strength to our servicemen and women who are risking their lives for our safety and freedom.

ATAA Board of Directors

For more information on Turkey's role in combating terrorism please visit ATAA's commemorative page at www.ataa.org.